How to Express Condolences

When it comes to providing comfort to someone who is grieving, it is not always easy. Sometimes it can feel as though you are helpless and unable to take their pain away; however, there are some things that you can do to ease their pain and show them support and compassion. One way is through condolence cards and letters. It may not always be easy to write a condolence card, which is why we provide some insight on how to write in a condolence card and other thoughtful and considerate gifts to give.

Unless we have experienced the loss of a spouse or parent, it can be hard to know what someone is going through firsthand. This should not discourage you, however, when it comes to providing support and being there during this difficult time.

In this post, we cover:

• Condolence for the loss of a parent
• Condolence for the loss of a spouse
• Condolence for the loss of a friend or colleague
• What to give to show condolences

Condolence for the loss of a Parent

Experiencing the loss of a parent is never easy – especially when it feels they have been taken from us too soon. For many, there is this hopeful belief that their parents would never die; however, when our father or mother passes, it can be stressful and shocking. In a way, this is one of the reasons that make writing a condolence card for the loss of a parent difficult. Unless one has experienced such a loss, it can be hard to sympathize fully.

One way of providing support for someone who has experienced the loss of a parent is to reminisce about the good times. From sharing stories to looking at old photos, these gestures can mean a lot for someone coping with the death of a parent. 
Are you still needing inspiration for what to write in a card for someone who has lost a parent?

Here are some words of support that would be ideal for writing in a condolence card for someone who has lost a parent:

• Thinking of you during this difficult time.
• They have raised amazing children who have become amazing adults.
• We are praying for you and your family during this time of loss.

Condolence for the loss of a Spouse

When we find the person we are going to spend the rest of our lives with, the last thing that would cross our mind is the thought of having to bury them. Whether they have passed due to illness, accident, or old age, it can still be a tragedy to have to say goodbye to someone we have vowed to love till death.

Losing a spouse can sometimes result in the other partner feeling lost, confused, and wishing that it was them rather than their partner. When it comes to writing inside the card of someone who has lost a spouse, they might appreciate the following:

• Know that we are here for you no matter what.
• They are always with you in spirit and heart.
• I may not know what it is like to lose my best friend, but I am thinking and praying for you.
• Remember that the best way to keep them alive is never to stop loving them.

Condolence for the loss of a friend or colleague

Whether you have only known each other for only a year or more, losing someone whom you have grown close with is hard. It is never easy to go from seeing them every day and having lunches together to now seeing someone else sit at their desk. The loss of a friend, especially a colleague, is never easy to cope with.

If you know someone who has experienced the loss of a colleague, you can say the following as a form of support:

• I am sorry to hear the loss of your friend – it is never easy, but know that I am here for you.
• We are sending you positive thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
• A loss is a loss, and I hope you know that we are here for you.

What to Give to Show One’s Condolence

Sending a card, or rather showing your condolence through a card is one thing; however, there are other things that one can do to show compassion for someone who has lost a friend, spouse, or parent.

Are you looking for more ideas? Here are some examples of other thoughtful and considerate gifts to give someone who has experienced a loss.

Flowers – Flowers say what we can’t often put into words. From lilies to daisies and daffodils, many flowers in the market have different meanings. If you want to show your support, you can send some white carnations or daffodils, as these flowers are commonly given as condolence flowers. You can send the flowers to the person’s home, or if you have been invited to the funeral, you can send flowers to the funeral home as well. No matter how big or small, show you care with a floral arrangement.

Card – Depending on how close you are with the person grieving, sending them a card can go a long way. Cards are personal and intimate, and a great way to show you are thinking of the person during this difficult time.

Food – When someone loses a family member or a friend, they can sometimes forget about their self-care, which is why bringing over food can be a welcome treat. It is also a way to show your support during this difficult time. They may not appreciate it right away; however, once they have slowly gone back to their routine, then they are going to appreciate that chicken casserole.

No matter what you decide to send or do, remember that for someone experiencing a loss, they are going to appreciate the thought. Losing someone is never easy, it can feel as though no one understands or that anyone can relate; however, showing some condolence and compassion can go a long way. From flowers to food and even a dollar-store card, show that special someone you care during this difficult time.