Here's my version: "Oh darn, here we go again. Not another growth experience!"

How do you get to the point where you shake that tambourine? How do you get through the day after the exodus from everything you know and hold dear?

There are many types of loss and many responses to tragedy. No feeling is wrong or inappropriate. In fact, I think it's a perfectly normal reaction to be angry at God. It's OK. God's big enough to handle all human feelings. Just keep talking to God. Just speak from the heart. Whatever is on your mind.

You, however, may not yet be strong enough to handle the well-meaning comments you're about to hear from people who should know better. Others will try to console you with sayings like, "God knows what God is doing." Oh please.

The middle of a crisis is not the time to do theology.

If you're reading this because someone you love is afflicted, help them cope. A simple "I'm so sorry you're going through this, but I'm here to do it with you" suffices. You don't need to say anything more than this. Then, be there for all the other parts of their lives about to splinter off. Food, carpools, daily cleaning -- all these are precious commodities to people or families struggling just to get through another day.

For a very powerful healing experience, please join us 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 18 at Bayou Manor, 4141 S. Braeswood as I conduct an ecumenical Shabbat Healing Service. This event is for anyone in need of healing of any sort, as well as family and friends. We welcome you with open hearts and look forward to meeting with you. Download brochure (PDF)