When you understand another person’s reaction to pain, loss, distress and feel sorry for their situation, it is known as sympathy. According to the famous German philosopher, Arthur Schopenhauer “Mostly it is loss which teaches us about the worth of things.” Hence, it is very important to see and understand other person’s perspectives. Sympathy is only shown during the occasions especially during the time of loss and distress.
Offering sympathy, verbally or written can be challenging. Also, sympathy has levels depending on what the other person is going through and the circumstances. Sympathy cards are one of the best ways to show compassion and offer support to the person who is grieving. Also, handwritten cards offer more personal message than printed cards. You may not be able to solve the issues or replace their loss. However, you may let the person know that you understand their pain and assure them that you are available to support them. Here are a few situations and sentences that you can use while writing the sympathy cards. However, you can always include a personal message to convey your sympathy.
Situation 1 – Loss of a friend
Losing a friend could be very painful to a few people as many are closer to their friends than their family members.
- i am / We are thinking of you and wishing you moments of peace and comfort as you remember your friend ‘Name of the deceased’ who was so close to you
- ‘Name of the deceased’ was an amazing friend, husband/wife and exceptional human being. A great soul, may she/he rest in peace. Sorry to hear about this news. Please know that we stand with you in this time of need.
- He/she was truly an incredible man/woman, full of love, sincerity, and joy. He/She will be greatly missed. May you take comfort in the love of friends and family during this difficult time.
- I felt so sad when I heard the news, and I’m sorry for your loss ‘Name’. I’m sure your friend ‘Name of the deceased’ will forever be remembered as a good guy/girl. We will miss him/her too. Sending my deepest
Situation 2 – Loss of a parent
The loss of a father or a mother can be deeper than losing a friend. Hence while sending a sympathy card, it is very important to include a personal message and also add admiration for the person’s mother/father.
- I don’t have enough comforting words as we always run out of them when we need them most. The passing of your mother/father who loved you so much is never easy. I am so lucky to have known her/him. Please know that my family and I are here for and we mourn with you.
- i am deeply saddened to hear of your mother’s/father’s passing. She/He was loved and respected by everyone who met her. I hope you can find peace in the wonderful life she/he has lived. May she/he rest in peace. God bless you and your family.
- I always believe that children continue the legacy their parents begin. Your father/mother has built a strong legacy that I know will live on through you. Please know that my thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
- This is one of the moments that makes me realize, life isn’t fair. Your mother/father was one of the best persons I have had the privilege to meet. I will miss her/him terribly. Please know, I am here for you — my deepest condolences.
- Your mother/father always boasted about how wonderful you were. I hope you know that you meant the world to her/him. She/He was a wonderful woman/man and will surely be missed. I am truly sorry for your loss.
Situation 3 – Loss of a child
Watching a younger soul leave this world leaves a scar and an empty space that can perhaps never be filled. You must always choose the words for such situations carefully and do not say ‘It’s okay’ or ‘It’s God’s will.’
- At this time, my words are not adequate to express the sorrow I feel for your loss. You daughter/son was an inspiration to everyone around him. I feel blessed and fortunate to have known his/her beauty, and I promise to keep her/his memories alive.
- i am so sorry for your loss. You have to believe that ‘Name of the child’ was here for a reason and your connection with your child will never be broken. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
- The love and joy that ‘Name of the deceased child’ brought to us all is something I will forever miss and treasure. I am very sorry for your loss.
- There is no pain more far-reaching and deeper than losing a child. Our hearts and prayers go out to you at this most difficult time.
Situation 4 – Loss of a sibling
The relationship between siblings is one of the special bonds that is only shared between brothers and sisters. It also applies to step-siblings as for a few people siblings remain their best friends. The loss of a brother or sister is often not mentioned.
- Your brother’s/sister’s death came as such a shock. I had no idea that he/she would leave us so soon. I extend my deepest sympathy to you and your family. He/She has left us at too young an age. ‘Name of the deceased’ will be remembered for all that he/she accomplished in such a short life.
- i am sorry for the loss of your brother/sister. Words are short for what I am feeling and wanting to express to you right now. Please know that I am thinking of you and sharing your loss.
- Losing a brother/sister is very painful. I will remember ‘Name of the deceased’ always for his/her great charm and wit. My family and I share in your grief at this difficult time.
- I was deeply saddened to hear of your brother’s/sister’s passing. He/She was very special, and we all thought the world of him/her. You have my sincere sympathy for your loss.