How to Write Words of Condolence

Assure your friend that you'll be there for her in tough times.

Writing words of condolence to someone who has recently been through a loss is an effective and powerful way of comforting him during a difficult time. While your words may not take away his pain, they can encourage him and assure him that someone is supportive. There are a few ways you can write words of condolence that will help make someone's grieving process a little more bearable.

Instructions

1. Let him know you are there. When the one you care about goes through a loss, he may want a friend to talk to or he may want space to just grieve and try to accept the loss on his own. Either way, letting him know you are there in case he does want to talk gives him an option and helps him feel not so alone. If the one you care about chooses to talk to you, make sure to listen and wait until he is finished to give your response. Your presence during this time will demonstrate the depth of the care you have in your heart.

2. Remind her it is okay to be sad. Explain to her that the grieving process is not only natural and expected, but healthy and necessary for a full recovery. Encourage her to pour out her emotions and not try to stifle any feelings of hurt or betrayal she may experience. Make sure she understands that sadness eventually leads to healing, and that crying helps relieve tension and get rid of negative emotions. Holding in feelings of despair may lead to bitterness or anger.

3. Tell him you love him. This is a basic but vital way to encourage your friend during such a vulnerable time. Remind him that even if he has recently experienced loss, you are there for him and are concerned for his well-being even in a period of darkness. Your act of writing a letter will in itself demonstrate the depth of your love for him.

4. Encourage her that she will get through this. While she has heard it before, she should hear it again from you; she will survive this difficult time and she will live to be truly happy again. Putting her loss into perspective will help her realize that this is not the end of the world. It is natural for her emotions to be overwhelming, but time does bring healing and restoration. Let her know that you see bright days in her future, and that this time of brokenness is just a season that will lead to happiness and new beginnings.

References

• Healthy Holistic Living: Words to Comfort Someone Grieving