How to Show Sympathy To Friends and Relatives Who Have Lost A Loved One
Losing a loved one is a lonely time for anyone who experiences such a loss. But in order to show sympathy, consider the following: Put yourself in the other person's shoes and let them know that you care and that you are available to help in any way that you can.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Communicate with them by phone, mail, email, text, etc. that you are thinking about them. Often. As often as possible.
-
2
Encourage them to attend the gatherings and parties that they usually attend and also to invite them to attend gatherings and activities with you.
-
-
3
Invite them to go shopping with you; even if it is just window shopping. Give them lots of invites. Invite them to a movie/ dinner/church, etc.
-
4
Be gentle. If it's an older person who has lost a spouse, maybe they would be interested in taking a drive to their hometown or to the place where they first met, or had their first date; but only if it's not too painful.
-
5
Be a good listener. Ask them if they are up to having company. Be patient and sensitive as you listen to them talk about their deceased loved one, share their feelings or just talk about what is on their heart.
-
6
Send them "thinking of you" cards for an indefinite period of time. Keep them simple and sweet, not too wordy. Also consider surprising them with a simple gift. Tell them that you feel inadequate but you want them to know that you care.
-
7
Cook a meal with them. If it does not hurt their feelings too much, ask if they want to cook the favorite meal of the person who has passed on.
-
8
Be sensitive. Ask them what can you do to help them make it through. Be gentle.
-
9
Let them know that they are not a burden to you; that you love and care about them.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Remember. They are very fragile in many ways. Handle them the way you would fine crystal. Give lots of hugs and kisses. Love never fails.
Original Publication Date /11/19/08 How to Show Sympathy During the Holidays To Relatives Who Have Lost A Loved One
Article Edit 8/12/09
Resources
More Like This
Comments
-
Kallicat
Dec 25, 2008
Important advice. If you are far away, calling, writing, or emailing is a good option. Just letting the person know you care can go a long way. -
audreylove2008
Dec 12, 2008
its great that u wrote this some people can be so unsympathetic.
-
DLR Writer
Dec 11, 2008
Awesome tips, I lost both of my parents so this time is always hard for my family. Thank you for a very thoughtful article.
-
Barbara Raskauskas
Nov 30, 2008
These are great tips, showing that you care about the person saddened by the loss of a loved one. These tips are sure to brighten their day and help bring them out of a sorrow slump. 5*
