Go to a stranger's funeral?

[Lisoula]

I don't know what to do. There was a motorcycle accident in front of my house on Saturday night and the driver was killed. He hit my father-in-law's parked truck. His passenger survived but is still hospitalized. There were three motorcycles driving in a row, and the second bike was the victim's father and brother.

I obviously didn't know the driver, but I was the first one on the scene (I heard the crash from inside my house and immediately ran outside....it was only about 20 seconds until I got out there) and now feel connected to them. I cannot stop thinking about them.

I'm a nurse, so it's not the blood and everything else like that that is upsetting me. I can't explain it. Anyway - the driver's funeral is tomorrow and I feel like I should go, and at least say something to the family, especially since I talked to the father about his son's condition until the ambulances and police arrived.

Opinions???

[Gentle~Mommy :)]

oh my gosh, how awful for everyone touched by this death, I'm so sorry.

I think going to the funeral would be a wonderful, touching thing to do - if you are able and if it is not a huge inconvenience. You are certainly not obligated to attend.

[Novella]

If I was a member of the surviving family and knew you had come out of your house and been involved as you did, I would expect you to be there.

But I don't mean that to sound like it's a duty I would hold of you.

I just mean that it sounds very normal and very likely to me.

If you didn't come, I would be wondering whether you had avoided doing something you wanted to do (attend the funeral) simply for fear of further upsetting the family by your presence.

[expatmommy]

I think it is a wonderful gesture to go.