It’s a Sad Story, but They Got It Right

I cringe nearly every time I see a story about grief -- that of a celebrity-athlete or any other person. It’s the unfortunate byproduct of spending the last 17 years as a professional, helping people deal with death, divorce and other losses. Sometimes, I know too much.

However, Tim Brown’s interview-story with Karl Malone about Karl’s reaction to the death of his mother was rare in both its sensitivity and emotional honesty. Karl’s truth and Tim’s reporting were perfect and perfectly emotional for me. Trust me, I would nitpick it to death if I it was wrong.

Thanks to Tim and to The Times for presenting the story, and mostly thanks to Karl for telling his truth. By the way, my mom died suddenly 11 years ago, so it was easy for me to relate to what Karl’s been feeling.

Russell Friedman

The Grief Recovery Institute,

Sherman Oaks