Divorce hurts. And it’s not just the reality of a marriage ending that can sting, but sometimes it’s the words or actions of well-meaning loved ones that are walking an unfamiliar path along with you. As I see more and more friends and family experiencing divorce and separation I’m reminded of one thing. The role of those on the outside looking in can be a key factor in how fast and how completely a person in the throes of divorce can heal. I also realize that the pain felt by those from the outside can be just as intense.

So, as a friend or family member of a person experiencing divorce or separation how do you handle it from the outside looking in? I’m glad you asked.

• Don’t make the divorce or separation the center of conversations. There’s more to talk about than that, and most who have experienced divorce want to…