Writing a sympathy card is never a welcomed task. Finding the right words to express condolences to a person who’s lost someone can be a challenging and emotional experience. You want to acknowledge their loss and grief, but also don’t want to say the wrong thing. It can be especially difficult if you didn’t know the deceased personally. Show
For help finding the right words, we’ve rounded up some thoughtful messages to write inside a sympathy card, note or letter for someone dealing with the death of a loved one. These messages will show the bereaved how much you care while remaining respectful and supportive. Whether it’s a friend coping with the sudden loss of a spouse or a colleague whose mom recently passed, sharing your heartfelt sympathy lets them know that they’re not alone and that you’re thinking of them. “Handwritten notes are one of the most personal forms of communication,” says Tanea Smith, owner of She’s Got Papers, an online stationery boutique. “The recipient may forget the day you called or visited but your card is a keepsake. It will be kept and reread. In the days after a funeral the family is bombarded with guests and comfort. In the weeks, months and years following the tangible items will remain.” While these messages are intended to spark ideas and serve as inspiration, you should always be authentic and include a personal memory or anecdote, if possible. “Reminders of that funny moment at the family gathering, the first time you met the deceased, milestones you may have shared, or something that was unique to the deceased are all things you want to share,” says Smith. Just be sure to avoid writing things that could be upsetting or misinterpreted. “Never write, ‘They're in a better place and there's no more pain,’” says Smith. “While you may feel this way, any phrase that brings attention to the death can produce more grief and sadness. You want your words to do the opposite, not highlighting the death but celebrating the life.” Shirley Enebrad, an author and certified grief recovery specialist agrees. “Never make it about you and your experience with loss,” she says. “Focus on the griever and his or her feelings. Absolutely never say, "I know how you feel.” Additionally, it’s always best not to ask how you can help. “Do not ask them to contact you if they need anything,” Enebrad says. “Tell them you will follow up in a few weeks to offer your services to go shopping, clean their windows, sweep their garage, cook them a meal or something tangible.” Also, remember to send your sympathy card within the first couple of weeks. However, if you miss that opportunity, it’s never too late. In fact, it might have a positive impact on the grieving recipient who may feel like everyone has moved on while they’re still grappling with their loss. “We're all going to leave our mark on the hearts of those who knew us when we exit this world,” says Smith. “Sending a sympathy card is an opportunity to celebrate someone's life while lifting the spirits of their loved one at the same time.” Ideas for Writing Condolence Messages to a Friend
Ideas for Writing Condolence Messages to a Colleague
Ideas for Writing Condolence Messages to Someone Who Lost a Mom or Dad
Ideas for Writing Condolence Messages to Someone Who Lost a Husband or Wife
Karla Pope is a longtime writer, editor and blogger with nearly two decades of editorial experience. She’s written for a variety of outlets including Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, People, Parade, BET.com. WebMD and more. Her coverage includes entertainment, beauty, lifestyle, parenting and fashion content. If she's not exploring New York City with her two young children, you can find her curled up on the couch watching a documentary and eating gummy bears. What do you write in a sympathy card for a friend who lost her mother?Sympathy Messages for Loss of Mother. “I miss your wonderful Mother along with you and wish you comfort and peace during this difficult time.”. “Your Mom's amazing qualities are being carried on beautifully by you. ... . “I didn't know your Mom well, but she must have been incredible to raise someone as special as you.”. How do you comfort a friend who lost a mother?Words of Sympathy for a Text or DM. So sorry to hear about your Mom. ... . If you need or want company, let me know. ... . I'm happy to chat whenever. ... . I wish you comfort over these tough days and weeks. ... . Grief is a process, and I'm here for whatever you need. ... . I miss her too. ... . Want to get out and go for a walk?. |