In Larry McMurtry's "Lonesome Dove," a character named Deets expresses a sense of compassion in the face of loss. He acknowledges the sorrow that others feel, suggesting that merely saying sorry isn't enough to alter the reality of the situation. Deets emphasizes that the person they mourn has passed away and urges them not to dwell on the grief.
Instead, Deets reassures his companions by indicating that the departed has gone to a peaceful place, an idea that provides a sense of solace amidst their pain. His supportive gesture, symbolized by reaching out with his hand, reflects an understanding of the depth of their emotions while also encouraging them to find comfort in the notion of peace after death.