MustKnowHistory...gee. Toughie.
For what its worth... even if you only see one spark of helpful info here;
I M H O
This is similar to experiencing the death of a close friend. I think most of the phases of loss will apply,i.e. denial, anger, etc.
When someone experiences a tragic or terrIble loss, they need to talk about it, obviously.
Someone one once told me that the grieving person should seek out 5 or so different people that they can bear their souls to...get it all out and truely grieve. At that point, ostensibly, the grieving person can begin the healing process further.
There is no reason this is different for Cruz supporters, as opposed to other losses, as some of them (Cruz supporters) really are attached to him and his message. It is a very personal loss for many of them. Something to recognize I suppose.
Now, throw in the situation at hand...a major election year with emotions flying all over..gee.
Good luck.
You are absolutely correct. They are in some grief process and they need to work through it. I think I will not go to lunch with them for a few weeks and then reconnect, hoping they are in a better place then.
I appreciate all who can help me with this.
Thanks, very helpful advice. And you notice people do want to talk about a loss and listening is good.