How to Thank Someone for Expressions of Sympathy

We truly know who our friends are when we receive expressions of sympathy. At times of loss and emotional hardship, a letter, gift, card or any other offering is something comforting to us. These sometimes simple demonstrations allow us to feel the love of others and their great care. And we are touched by these Christian actions. So touched, in fact, that our wish is then to reciprocate our feeling of friendship and love. But this isn't always easy. Here are some simple but thoughtful steps to do this.

Things You'll Need

• Ink pen
• Scrap paper
• Good-quality writing paper

Instructions

1. To properly show your love and thankfulness, it helps to use a more formal tone of voice. So when you write your thoughts, try using words that aren't always used in day-to-day language. Once you've got a grasp of how you want to start the letter, practice this on scrap paper so you can get a general idea of what you might say. If you like, you can use a dictionary to find words to help express your deeper, inner feelings. And if you don't actually own a dictionary, do not worry. There are many online ones you can use.

2. Now that you understand the basic tools, here are some tips that will allow you to write the essence of the letter. First, show your appreciation and deep affection for what this person has done. Mention the gift, card or letter in question, explaining how it made you feel. Don't forget to use the dictionary at hand.

3. Next, explain why this person's token of sympathy touched you. Don't worry about being too honest, that is what friendship is all about. Follow this up with writing about how you value this person and his or her thoughtful actions. Show how these actions are helping you get through your difficult time. Again, be completely open with this person, and let him or her know that he or she is really helping you.

4. At this point in the letter, you can deviate a bit from the main subject, adding personal memories or anything else relevant that you think of. But more importantly, this is the part where you share your wish to be surrounded by friends. Tell this person again how touching his or her offering was.

5. To finish your letter, make a final remark demonstrating how kind and warm your friend's support has been. For example, "To find that others will support me in these times of trouble is most comforting and heartwarming," or "I would like to thank you for the concern that you have shown to both me and my wider family."

References

• A good online dictionary
• Examples of condolence letters
• Emily Post etiquette