In the last few weeks, the media has been a buzz remembering Princess Diana, Mother Teresa, and Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin.

Although most of us haven’t had the distinction of serving such high profile families after their loss, there are a lot of lessons to be learned from a Princess, a Woman of Faith, and a Wildlife Conservationist.

So young at their mother’s death one can only imagine that Princes William and Harry were just going through the motions and following instruction during Princess Diana’s funeral and burial. Now, all grown up, how appropriate that they would organize a tribute to their Mother that would bring new meaning to them. Children experiencing loss can only process what they can cognitively understand. A child’s grief takes so long to process since, as they age, they learn and understand new information, and have to decide what to do with that information.

As I watched Princess Diana’s funeral 10 years ago, I just ached for those young boys whose mother had died, and how their lives had changed forever. As I watched the memorial service marking the 10 year anniversary of Diana’s death, I marveled at how well adjusted, well spoken, and at peace the Princes seemed to be.

Their lesson is that time doesn’t heal all wounds, but it does allow us to see how processing has occurred and life can be carried on. Follow up is so important to those working with children after a death, not only for them, but for us. How wonderful to know a child you served years ago is now well adjusted, well spoke, and at peace. Don’t hesitate to follow up.

Mother Teresa and her newly revealed struggle with her faith through her writings some years ago have brought some controversy. However, I think the lesson to be learned from her is that people who struggle with their faith through loss are simply -- normal. After a loss, one’s faith is usually strengthened or weakened, but it rarely remains the same. As we serve those who are grieving we should be mindful and non-judgmental about their possible struggle with their faith. Unfortunately struggle with faith usually includes anger, which is sometimes directed at the person who is serving the bereaved.

Steve Irwin’s small daughter has carried on her Dad’s work with the wild creatures of the world. The lesson from that family, a father shared and passed along his passion to his daughter in the few short years they had together. It’s not unusual for an adult child to carry on Mom or Dad’s business, but an elementary aged child who was given her Dad’s passion for life -- what a gift to her. Remember the gift of passion as you serve those experiencing loss, and make sure you are sharing your passion with others too.

These three people couldn’t have been more different in their lives, and yet each of them has a lesson for us to learn from their deaths, if we choose to.