Most people would like some help when it comes time to write a sympathy note. As one friend puts it, it’s very difficult to figure out what to say to someone experiencing such deep sorrow. The bereaved do appreciate the caring sentiment these notes convey and they play an essential role in communicating our condolences. While it’s important to craft a comforting message, it feels as if there is too much emphasis placed on a written note rather than the personal extension of condolences and support extended to the bereaved.
Many bereaved share how touched they are by notes and personal remembrances from friends, loved ones, neighbors, and colleagues. These messages are often savored, read, and re-read during the period of mourning. But the bereaved also share that the most meaningful expressions of sympathy are often verbal and face-to-face communications in the weeks and months following a death. This is a sad and often lonely period when physical presence is often scarce.
So instead of placing so much importance on a sympathy note, let’s focus our attention on being present in the life of the bereaved, well past the early weeks following a loved one’s death. Do write a meaningful note, sign an online guest book, and post on a Facebook page, sharing your stories and old photos that make the deceased present once again to those who loved and cherished them. But don’t stop there. Send a “thinking of you” card, a personal note, an email message, or a Facebook poke. Phone to check in and see how they are doing. Make a date for a walk, coffee, a visit, or a meal. Invite them to join you for a movie, religious services, shopping, dinner at your home, or some time out. Offer to pick them up if you feel they are too housebound or they seem to be having difficulty moving forward.
Caring condolence notes are a great start, but once they’re mailed, your job isn’t done. Let your thoughtfulness extend beyond the written word and your kindness will make a profound difference.
Adapted from legacy.com All rights reserved.
Many bereaved share how touched they are by notes and personal remembrances from friends, loved ones, neighbors, and colleagues. These messages are often savored, read, and re-read during the period of mourning. But the bereaved also share that the most meaningful expressions of sympathy are often verbal and face-to-face communications in the weeks and months following a death. This is a sad and often lonely period when physical presence is often scarce.
So instead of placing so much importance on a sympathy note, let’s focus our attention on being present in the life of the bereaved, well past the early weeks following a loved one’s death. Do write a meaningful note, sign an online guest book, and post on a Facebook page, sharing your stories and old photos that make the deceased present once again to those who loved and cherished them. But don’t stop there. Send a “thinking of you” card, a personal note, an email message, or a Facebook poke. Phone to check in and see how they are doing. Make a date for a walk, coffee, a visit, or a meal. Invite them to join you for a movie, religious services, shopping, dinner at your home, or some time out. Offer to pick them up if you feel they are too housebound or they seem to be having difficulty moving forward.
Caring condolence notes are a great start, but once they’re mailed, your job isn’t done. Let your thoughtfulness extend beyond the written word and your kindness will make a profound difference.
Adapted from legacy.com All rights reserved.
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