In today's Asking Eric column, R. Eric Thomas responds to someone who isn't sure how to answer questions about her children after one of them has died.

I lost my oldest, beautiful, intelligent daughter five years ago at 38 years young. She left behind two young sons and a spouse. Her death ultimately stemmed from alcoholism; however,

"Over the years, I’ve answered many different ways (depending on who is asking) but most times it feels really awkward."

I lost my oldest, beautiful, intelligent daughter five years ago at 38 years young. She left behind two young sons and a spouse. Her death ultimately stemmed from alcoholism; however, she was admitted to the hospital with pneumonia and eventually her body shut down organ by organ.