subject: Words for Sympathy-Help Soothe a Grieving Heart [print this page] Words for Sympathy-Help Soothe a Grieving Heart
When you have a friend or family member that is dealing with loss, you'll want to find a way to offer comfort. It's important to find the right words for sympathy so you can express the sentiment in just the right way. When you want to be there for your friend or loved one in just the right way, there are a few words that can help and a few things you should avoid saying. Whether attending a funeral, writing a card, or stopping by to offer condolences, take the time to make a thoughtful expression of your sympathy so you can offer comfort to your friend. There are several helpful words of sympathy that can be of real comfort to the bereaved as they cope with their loss.
Comforting things to say include:
* I am sorry for your loss.
* If you need a listening ear, I am here for you.
* Could I help you with...?(make an offer that will ease their day-to-day burdens)
* My family will miss (name) so much.
* My favorite memory of (name) was when...(talk about a fond memory you have of the person that has passed away)
* My family always enjoyed the way (name) would...(talk about something kind he/she did for your family)
When expressing sentiments of loss, there are also many things that you should avoid saying. Sayings like "time will heal all wounds" can actually be the exact opposite of comforting to the bereaved. It can also be hurtful to talk about things like their loved one "being in a better place". You should also avoid talking about knowing how they feel or related sentiments, which actually shift the attention off the bereaved. The goal is to offer true sentiments that express your wish to comfort your friend or loved one as they face this loss.
Because of the difficulty of coping with loss, it can be helpful to offer comforting words of sympathy when someone close to you is grieving. Any loss can be hard to face, so you'll want to find the right words to encourage them as they face the challenge of the grieving process. In order to express the sentiment appropriately, it's important to know what to say and what not to say. Saying the wrong thing can actually cause more pain and make the grieving process even worse, which is the last thing anyone would want.
