Listen in on Kate’s conversation with Emily McDowell, here.

Click here to download the discussion questions as a PDF.

1. Emily explains that it wasn’t actually her diagnosis that awakened her to the fragility of life, but the death of her dear friend. Describe that moment for you.

2. What is the most cringeworthy thing someone has said or done after you told them terrible news? And, if you’re feeling brave: Share a time you said something you wish you could take back.

3. In her New York Times’ op-ed, Kate boils people’s harmful responses down to three types: Minimizers, Teachers, and Solvers. Why do you think people reach for these responses?

4. Kate and Emily both admit that grief and loss can be so completely isolating. What do you think stops people from reaching out to someone facing difficult circumstances? What has stopped you?

5. Emily and Kelsey’s book, There Is No Good Card for This: What To Say and Do When Life Is Scary, Awful, and Unfair to People You Love, describes the different types of loss people grieve. Describe a loss you’ve experienced.

6. In the midst of loss, we need people to reflect back to us who we are. How have people been that mirror to you?

7. Which of Emily’s Empathy Cards resonate deepest with you? Why?

8. Think back to a moment when you’ve felt loved during a difficult season. What was the most meaningful thing that people did or said to make you feel that way?

9. Emily says that love is in the little things. What are some of the little things that make you feel the most seen on tough days?

10. Who are three people who are facing a difficult season right now? What is one way you are going to reach out to them this week?

Discussion Questions written by Jessica Richie.
For more discussion questions and helpful resources, visit KateBowler.com.
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