The best condolences combine sincerity and compassion in just the right balance. The message is brief but heartfelt, conveying your support without being overly cliché. You may deliver one in person, over the phone, or on a card. Often, guests at South Bend, IN, funeral home services accompany their condolence message with a sympathy gift.
Whether it’s on a card or said in person, condolences are a sentimental expression of sympathy to comfort the recipient during a time of grief.
There are many ways that you can offer comfort, support, and empathy to someone who has recently lost a loved one.
What to say in a condolence message:
When writing a condolence message, express your sympathy in words that are meaningful to the person who has lost someone. A few suggestions:
- “I’m sorry for your loss” or “My heart goes out to you.”
- Say that you are thinking of them and offer words of comfort. For example, “I’m thinking of you during this difficult time” or “I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.”
- Offer a comforting thought or memory about the person who died. For example, “I remember how much she loved to play tennis” or “He always had such a warm smile.”
- Relate to how they feel. For example, “I know how hard it is to lose a loved one” or “I understand how difficult this time must be for you.”
What to do on a condolence visit:
When someone you know has experienced the death of a loved one, a condolence visit can be especially beneficial in expressing your support. Here are some ways to make the most of your stay:
- Be sincere and genuine. Let the person know you care about them and appreciate what they are going through.
- Offer your sympathy. Even if you feel uncomfortable, it is better to say something than not.
- Encourage the person to talk about their feelings. If you are open to being there for them that way, let the bereaved know that it’s okay to share their feelings with you.
- Listen: If they want to talk about their feelings or memories of the deceased, be patient with them as they pour out their heartache. If you can help it, don’t rush them along.
- Share: Let them know how much you will miss their loved one, too, and if the person has shared memories of the departed, share your own memories in return.
- Help out: Offer to do something specific to help them while mourning. Ask if there’s anything they need or want. You might offer to bring them meals or run errands for them.
If you have offered specific help in the past but have not heard back from them, don’t assume that they are refusing your offer. Instead, contact them again and ask if there is any way you can assist them during this time.
- End your message or visit with a kind wish for their future, words of hope and comfort, and perhaps a hug.
Since most people are new to the experience, knowing how to help someone grieving can be tricky. By showing them love and concern, you will help them through the difficult days ahead and support them as they adjust to life without their loved one.
As a full-service funeral home in South Bend, IN, we are here to help you take care of a late family or support a bereaved loved one. Call us today for immediate assistance or to plan ahead.