Ask Dali Mama

DEAR DALI MAMA:

My friend’s son recently went to prison. I want to support her but I don’t know what to say. Your thoughts?

–Wanna be a good friend (United States)

DEAR WANNA BE A GOOD FRIEND:

Perhaps you could tell her you are thinking of her and that you love her. Maybe you could also take her to lunch and talk—talk about fun things if she wants to or just listen if she wants to talk about what she’s experiencing. Let her guide the conversation as far as what she needs and wants.

If you know her son well, perhaps you could send him a letter in prison, letting him know that you are thinking of him. If you care about them both, showing that you still care about him regardless of his situation might just be the best thing you can do for your friend.