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What to Write in a Sympathy Card?

Mubasherin Sayed
Sympathy cards are written to express grief and concern to the people who have lost their near and dear ones. Here we will help you find the right words to write in a sympathy card to help you express your condolences.
Death is a bitter reality of life which everyone has to face some day or the other. People can write their hearts out when it comes to happy occasions, but they seem to hesitate while writing a sympathy card. Here are some tips to write sympathy messages and also certain examples of condolences.

Tips

  • It is better to keep the wordings short and to the point, rather than making them elaborate and long.
  • If the deceased person is closely related to you, then your sympathy card should express that person's importance and contribution in your life.
  • If the deceased person is not closely related to you, then it is better to write a short and simple message.
  • It is always good to put your signature at the end of the card rather than your first name or initials as there might be other members in your family having the same name.
  • Please do not use phrases like 'It was his time to go.'

Samples For a Sympathy Card

Sample 1: Loss of a Father

Message 1: I am truly sorry for your loss. I know how much your dad meant to you. He was your ideal and a hand to lead you through the dark phases of life. He will always remain in our hearts.
Message 2: We offer deepest condolences to you and your family. Our thoughts are with you in this time of sorrow. Please let us know of any way we can help you.

Sample 2: Loss of a Mother

Message 1: I don't have words to express my grief. Your mom was a wonderful lady. I remember the wonderful meals your mom cooked for us, and the times we spent together. It is really hard to believe that she in not amongst us now. I am really sorry for your loss.
Message 2: I am extremely sorry for your loss. Your mom had such a loving and dynamic personality. I am sure none of us will be able to forget her. Please remember that I am always there for you.

Sample 3: Loss of a Child

You can also give a short poem. "As a butterfly graces our lives with one moment's fragile beauty, so too has your baby's presence blessed you, and those that surround you, with his short life and unique spirit. May you find peace, and joy with each butterfly that passes, knowing that your baby lives on in the hearts of all he touched." I am deeply grieved.

Sample 4: Loss of a Pet

Pets are our loyal companions and become a very important part of our lives just like the other family members. Here are some examples on what to write in a sympathy card for a pet. You can start the card with a quote or saying.
There's a special place in heaven
That's been reserved
For all the dogs who so faithfully served
Those of us whose hearts are bereaved
When our place on earth they must leave.

I am really very sorry for your loss. Please accept my condolences for the loss of your loyal and friendly companion.

Sample 5: Loss of a Co-worker

Sympathy cards for co-workers should be simple and and have a formal tone. They can be sent personally if you are a close friend, or together from the staff of the company.

With our deepest sympathy for your loss, please accept our condolences for the loss of your mother. - Staff at ABC

You can modify the message according to your relationship with the person.
We hope you have got a basic idea of how sympathy cards are written. Remember to be sensitive and subtle, and keep the content crisp. The message will obviously depend on the relationship and closeness you share with the person.