How do you deal with Loss?

This is a great question ! I have also tried offering suggestions but when friends or loved ones are in this "funk", it IS hard to reach them. I've learned that just listening (when they feel like talking) is often enough for them. But I can't help feeling like I want to do more. It's hard to accept that I can't "fix" the problems sometime.

I have a friend who recently lost her father to a sudden heart attack. I offered my arms, I offered my shoulder, I offered platitudes and the promise that while the pain never goes completely away, it fades and life really, really does go on. I am  here if she needs me, and sometimes, just knowing that someone IS there gives a foundation to build on to return to life.

And what about their anger?  I can deal with it easily if I'm not directly involved. But when I or someone has that directed at them, then what?   I've heard it said that the anger is a lashing out because the person isn't able to accept or express their pain.  And somehow to be able to acknowledge it releases it.  How do we do that? Any ideas?