Many people want to reach out with condolences for the bereaved after hearing the news about someone’s death or after attending a cremation service in Colonial Beach, VA. But it can be hard to know what to say to someone that is going through the loss of a loved one, especially when trying to craft a sentiment that both acknowledges the loss and provides comfort to the bereaved. That’s where sympathy cards come in.
Sympathy cards are the most traditional method of communicating these sentiments to the bereaved in their time of grief, but it can be tricky to accurately convey feelings and ideas. Use these sympathy card tips based on the feelings you’re trying to convey to make sure you are getting your message across:
- Wanting to Help – Offering help to the bereaved is always well intentioned, especially since it can be hard for people to ask for help when they need it. To make it easier for the bereaved to get the help that is specific for their needs, try not to write statements like, “Call me if you need anything.” Instead, trying to say “I’m going to go grocery shopping on ____, send me your list and I will be happy to get it for you” or “Here is a gift certificate. Please use this to____.”
- Empathy – You might have lost someone, too. And while comparing your loss to the bereaved’s might seem like a good idea, it may come across as you trying to make it about you. Instead of writing, “I know how you feel” or “I’ve lost a ___ too”, try writing, “I’m grieving with you” or “I miss ___ too”.
- Apologizing for Missing the Service – Listing the various reasons why you couldn’t make a funeral or service may just look like you’re making excuses. Rather than writing, “I didn’t make the funeral because ___” try focusing on how you will support them in the future by saying something like, “I’m so sorry I couldn’t make it. I’m bringing lunch for you on ___ if that works for you.”
If you don’t want to write a card, you can also give the bereaved a call. Expressing condolences can be a tricky thing, as it can be hard to know what to say. If you’re at a loss for words, try using this list of traditional condolences as inspiration:
- “We are so sorry for your loss.”
- “No one can ever replace the remarkable person that your ____ was.”
- “My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.”
- I’ll always remember how [name] would [insert story or characteristic here].”
- “There are no words. Just know that I love you and will also miss [name].”
- “[Name] was a great person. My sympathies to you and your family.”
Sending words of comfort can go a long way. Storke Funeral Home is here to help if you would like more tips on sympathy cards or would like to learn more about our Colonial Beach, VA cremation services. Call or visit us today.