How to Write a Heartfelt Sympathy Card

The passing of a loved one is never an easy situation. It can be difficult as well to know what to write when sending a sympathy card. The selection of an appropriate card, and choosing words to creat your heartfelt sentiment can be a real challenge. Give these tips a try.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A sympathy card or pretty card with blank interior
• Pen

1. Selecting an appropriate card:
   Be sure that the card fits the recipient. Choose a flowery card for a more feminine person, a card with religious overtones for a churchgoer, or a poetic card for a pensive person. You may decide that a nice blank notecard will be the way to begin.

2. Selecting Sympathetic Words and Phrases:
   Be succinct, brief, encouraging, and empathetic. Honor their feelings, express regret for their loss, and encouragement. State your intention to offer assistance to them as well. Some appropriate phrases are:
   
   I am so sorry to hear of your loss.
   I am here for you during this difficult time.
   If there is anything I can do for you, please don't hesitate to ask. (Don't forget to include your phone number)
   
   Tell the person how much their loved one meant to you, and that you know they meant so much to them as well.

3. Follow up:
   
   A gift of food or flowers may be greatly appreciated. A phone call or stopping by for a visit after all of the funeral activities are over can help immeasurably. Remember that the person is dealing with a huge void where their loved one used to be.

Tips & Warnings

• A card signed by many people in a workplace setting can offer a show of strength for a person.
• Collecting a few dollars from each person to include in the card can help the person to cope with some unplanned expenses.
• Be light but not flippant in your wording.
• Now is not the time for jokes.

[painthorse42]

on 12/10/2008 Very good article! 5*

[PajamaMommy]

on 10/3/2008 Good advice. Thanks.