From this basis, I would then ask her about her husband or partner. If this person is still living, I would ask her about the relationship, whether it is a good one, and whether she finds it meaningful. If she is still with her husband or partner after years of raising children and after they were grown, it is likely that there is a significant bond between my friend and her partner. Even if he had died, there is still the potential to make meaning based on the relationship she had. Again, if love was the basis for this relationship, it is likely to help my friend find meaning in the love that existed between herself and her partner. I could even ask her to share some good memories of her family and her youth with me. This would start the next part of my conversation.
In talking to my friend about her family, I would gradually steer the conversation towards her memories and encourage her to share good memories with me. These could include her...
These memories could trigger further meaningful feelings in her, as it is probable that there are several good memories of her past, which indicates a good relationship with her family and friends. I would also ask her about her current circle of friends and what she likes to do with them.
Another aspect that creates meaning in life is work. I would ask her about her daily routine, whether she currently has a job, or what her daily activities involve. These could also serve as an important platform for meaning, since they provide a reason for being active during the day.
By talking to my friend about her family, friends, work, and memories, may aim would be to help her find meaning in her life and reduce her death anxiety. The fact that her life was meaningful should then provide her with a sense that her life was significant, regardless of what happens after she dies.
