A hand-written card will always be one of the most personal forms of communication. When someone you know is grieving, a hand-written sympathy card is a great way to help them understand how much the person they’ve lost was valued, respected and loved. And if you know the grieving person better than you knew the person who has died, a sympathy card gives you the chance to offer your support to them. Show
What is a Good Sympathy Message? Expressing your condolences doesn’t have to be complicated. Keeping a few basic tips in mind can help you avoid “greeting card” vocabulary and turns of phrase that sound nothing like you. That’s not to say you can’t buy a card—feel free to buy a pre-printed card or use your own stationery. What’s important is that your sympathy message conveys a heartfelt sentiment that feels personal for the one receiving it. Here, we’re bringing you some of our favorite tips for putting together the most meaningful sympathy message that’s just right for the occasion. Whether you know someone who’s suffered a devastating loss like a parent or spouse, or you need a sympathy message for a friend, we’ve got you covered with some examples you can use for inspiration. Looking for a more casual sympathy message for a coworker or neighbor? We’ve got plenty of those, and even some simple sympathy messages if all you need is something quick and short. Tips to Craft the Best Sympathy MessagesRest assured that whatever you write will be appreciated, but here are a few points to ensure you craft a condolence message that comes from a place of authenticity. 1. Write in the First Person “I will really miss him,” is a personal statement and feels very different than, “He will be missed.” An easy way to know you’re on the right track is to imagine what you would say if the person you’re writing to were standing there in front of you. 2. Say It Your Way While greeting cards definitely nail it when it comes to sympathy messages for loss, they’re not the most personal option. If you buy a card, and you like its messaging, consider rephrasing it in your own words. People don’t always read the printed greeting, and even if they do, they know that someone in an office park cubicle probably wrote it. They will definitely read and appreciate your more personal version. 3. Acknowledge the Death Statements like, “We’re so sorry to hear the news,” can feel a bit like you’re avoiding the elephant in the room. It may sound counter-intuitive, but acknowledging clearly that someone has died (or passed away, gone to Heaven, reunited with God—however you prefer to say it) conveys that you’re comfortable talking about it and willing to share in what the family is going through. 4. Get Specific Remember when your high school English teacher taught you to use your details? Same’s true here. Including the name or role (e.g., mother or nephew) of the person who has died humanizes your message and makes it feel real. It may sound surprising, but people writing sympathy card messages often forget or avoid mentioning the name of the person who has died and opt instead for “your loss,” which can unintentionally read as distance or a lack of warmth. 5. Share an Appreciation or Reflection If you did know the person, offering a glimpse into what they meant to you can be a comfort and a gift to those who are grieving. Fond memories or lessons learned can also offer a little levity, which can have a healing effect during an intensely emotional time. 6. Include a Picture If you have a special photo of you and the person who has died, consider including a copy with the sympathy card. It’s a way to communicate your connection and appreciation for them, while also offering the family a new memory. Just make sure the image is positive in spirit. 7. It’s Never Too Late Whether it be two days, two months or two years, it’s never too late to send a sympathy message. Regardless of why time has passed, the person is still gone, and the family still misses them. Your sincere words will always be appreciated, and for the loved ones, knowing that the memory of their dear one lives on will likely be an unexpected and welcome gift. 8. A Simple Don’t If you’ve experienced loss in your life, resist the temptation to offer advice on what might’ve worked for you during your grieving process, and avoid versions of “things are going to get better” or “things happen for a reason.” Although you mean well, these types of sentiments often fall flat to those who are in the middle of sadness after a death. Grief needs to be fully experienced. No need to speed up the process or find novel ways around it. As a friend, you don’t have to solve the situation. Showing you care—and taking the time to write them personally—is more than enough. What to Write in a Sympathy CardNo matter how much you prepare, it’s easy to find yourself completely stuck when it comes time to pen your own condolence message. After all, the pressure’s on to say the right thing. If you’re wondering what to write in a sympathy card, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve got lots of inspirational sympathy messages for you to choose from, organized into categories for easy reference. In this section: Sympathy Message for Flowers Sympathy Message for Loss of Mother Sympathy Message for Loss of Father Sympathy Message for Loss of Husband or Wife Casual Sympathy Messages Deepest Sympathy Messages Short Sympathy Messages Sympathy Message for FlowersSending flowers as a way to honor someone who’s passed? Don’t forget to include a card. Not only will this help the family identify who the flowers are from (key during this hectic, sad time), but it’s also a nice chance to express your condolences. Since cards that come with flower arrangements are notoriously small, you’ll want to craft a short but impactful sympathy message.
Sympathy Message for Loss of MotherThere isn’t much that’s more difficult than losing a parent, no matter how old you are. Opt for one of these powerful sympathy messages for anyone who has lost their mom.
Sympathy Message for Loss of FatherLosing a father isn’t any easier than losing a mother, which is why these heartfelt sympathy messages may come in handy for such an occasion.
Sympathy Message for Loss of Husband or WifeThe loss of a husband or wife, regardless of age, can feel like losing part of oneself. Marriage is a journey that forges two people together in a way that can’t be mirrored in any other human relationship. That’s why the death of a spouse, especially if it was sudden, is so very devastating. Opt for one of these sympathy card messages.
Casual Sympathy MessagesPerhaps you’d like to express your condolences to someone you’re not quite as close to as family or a good friend. These simple sympathy messages are great for just such an occasion.
Deepest Sympathy MessagesGo a bit deeper and use these words to show just how incredibly sad you are that this special someone has passed. These deepest sympathy messages are suitable for anyone at any time, regardless of the relationship or specifics of the situation.
Short Sympathy MessagesThere’s nothing wrong with a short, succinct condolence message. These are especially perfect if you’re sending a small card with flowers, or if you need a short expression of sympathy to use on a craft for the person in mourning, like a photo frame or wreath.
Sending a sympathy message is a sign of respect and an act of comfort and kindness. More than anything, if you speak from the heart and make it personal, your condolences will be received with sincere gratitude and will help the person who is grieving know that the memory of their loved one lives on through others. What do you say when a uncle dies?"Please accept my heartfelt condolences to you and your family on your uncle's death. I'm sure that his memory will forever live on in your hearts." "I'm sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family."
What is a good short sympathy message?Short condolence messages for your family member
Know that we are thinking of you, remembering (Name) and celebrating his/her/their life. (Name) will always be in our hearts and memories. (Name) will leave a huge hole in all our lives. The family won't be the same without him/her/them.
What do you write in memory of your uncle?Tribute to a late uncle. No words can describe the loss I feel for my uncle's death. My heartfelt condolences go to the entire family.. Uncle, you are gone, but you will never be forgotten. ... . I am only left with your memories to live with now. ... . He passed away because his body had served its purpose.. How do you give condolences for death of a friend's uncle?May fond memories of your ________ bring you comfort during this hard time in your life. My heart and prayers go out to you and your family. I/We am/are truly sorry to hear of the loss of (Name). Please accept our condolences and may our prayers help comfort you and hasten the journey of his/her soul to Heaven.
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