Words of Condolence

Grief is a human emotion that everyone must deal with at some point in their lives. One of the things that make grief manageable is the fact that we understand everyone experiences it at some point in time, and so sympathies are offered that can help ease the pain of a lost loved one, or even a lost job or home. There are many different causes of grief in the world and knowing how to express your sympathies to a close friend or family member can mean the difference between them coping with their grief and getting over it, or drowning in depression without help.

If you find yourself in a position where you must console a family member or friend, take a few things into consideration before doing so. Was the thing or person lost very close to them? If so, saying things like, “Cheer up” and “It’ll get better” are not going to help console your friend. Instead, you should offer a hug and let them know you will be there if you are needed in any fashion, from a simple hug to talking about what has happened. The most important thing you can do is make sure that your help is given without being forced on the victim. The last thing anyone wants when they are feeling down about losing something is someone else smothering them with their condolences.

Good examples of condolence messages that are sent via card depend on the situation. If a loved one is lost, a simple message like, “There are no words that can ease the loss that you bear, but you should know that you are in our every thought and prayer.” It’s a small message that conveys your concern for the grieving while not being too sappy or pulling on the emotions to the extent of causing more harm than good.

Remember, how you react to a grieving person will really help them along in the cycle of loss, so make sure you are available when you are needed, without being overbearing or sappy, which is something that could be viewed negatively from the person you are trying to console.