How to Condolence Letters / What to say

Condolence letters/The form to use/What to say, and whom to write.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. A condolence letter is an expression of sympathy to a bereaved family or friend. Condolences should be handwritten, never typed, and should follow the form of the personal letter-that is, with their address and the date on the upper right-hand side of the paper. Your choice of stationary is important. Good-quality white, cream, or gray letter paper is appropriate.
2. It can be difficult to know what to say in a condolence letter, since nothing you can possibly say is really adequate. If the bereaved is a personal friend of yours, write to that friend, recounting a fond memory of the relative who died if you knew the relative. If you didn't know the deceased, concentrate on your friend and how he / she must be feeling. Whatever the situation, make yourself available for help or counsel.
3. If a friend of yours has died, write to that friend's closest relative.
   If you and the relative aren't accquainted, explain who you are and express how much your friendship with the deceased meant to you. Relate specific examples about your deceased friend; such memories will cheer and touch the bereaved family.