A new issue of The New York Times is now available at newspaper vendors, offering guidance on how to comfort loved ones during times of grief, drawing on the teachings of the ancient Greek philosopher Plutarch. The issue explores practical questions such as how to express love and how to inspire others, suggesting that readers can find philosophical insight throughout the week. Central to the discussion is Plutarch’s approach to comforting those who are grieving, particularly in his essay Consolation to his wife, which is part of his broader collection of writings known as the Moral Works. In Consolation to his wife, Plutarch reflects on the loss of his daughter, Timoxena, and the emotional challenge of helping his wife deal with her grief. He acknowledges that finding the right words to comfort someone in mourning can be difficult, as words may come out awkwardly or fail to provide the solace intended. Plutarch suggests that trying to soften the truth with euphemisms might do more harm than good, as it can obscure the reality of the loss. Instead, Plutarch encourages his wife—and by extension, others in similar situations—to accept the reality of the loss and to focus on the joyous memories shared with the departed. He believes that remembering a loved one with happiness, rather than sorrow, can help preserve their memory and prevent grief from distorting those recollections. This approach aligns with Stoic philosophy, which teaches that while some aspects of life, such as death, are beyond our control, how we respond to them is within our power. Plutarch recommends holding public discussions filled with warmth and joy when speaking of the deceased, rather than allowing sorrow to overshadow the good times. He believes that by celebrating the life of the departed, we can resist the temptation to curse fate or dwell on regret. In this way, he aims to help his wife—and others—find a path through grief that honors the beauty of past moments, even as the pain of loss remains.