My neighbor’s son passed away in April last year and what would have been his son’s 23rd birthday is coming up at the end of the month, so I know the next few weeks are going to be really hard on him.
We’re friends, but not super close. I’d like to do something for him, but can’t think of much beyond bringing over food and/or flowers. Any suggestions?
It is a good thing you want to do.
Thing is, no one will really be able to give you good advice unless they know your neighbor. I can only give you suggestions of what I would want you to do if I was your neighbor.
The grieving process is fucked up and people deal with it many different ways and there is no play book.
It is very possible that you attempting to celebrate his dead son’s birthday may only shove it all back into his life.
If I was your neighbor I would want you to leave it be and maintain the same boundaries we have now.