Condolence Letter

Expressing sympathy to someone who is grieving the loss of a loved one can be very difficult. While it is important to send out that letter to let that person know that you are there for them, it can be very difficult writing such a letter. What do you say when someone dies? This is a question that most of us have asked ourselves at some point of time or the other. How do you let a person know that as they go through this difficult process of mourning for someone they have lost, they have a friend to fall back on. Picking out condolence notes or cards from the card shop can be an easy way out but a handwritten note is always appreciated more, and is also more comforting.

How to Write a Letter of Condolence

As with letter writing in general, it is very important that the letter be send out promptly and within the first two weeks following the death of the person. Never ever type a letter to a friend or an acquaintance. Always write the letter yourself. In case you have no option but to buy a card from the card shop, always include some personal words of condolence. Write the letter in the tone that you use while conversing with the person in normal circumstances. There is no reason to be fancy or ornamental in the letter. The purpose of the letter is to let the person know that you sympathize with them in their loss.

Always express your sympathy in a genuine manner that seems heartfelt. If you knew the deceased personally, then mention those qualities in the condolence message about the person that always seemed striking to you. It may also be a good idea to include a mention of your most treasured moment with the person. If you know the person well enough then offer help in specific situations. But do ensure that you mention that you are ready to help them out with anything they need. The closing can be very important. Refer to examples and you will observe that these letters always end on a thoughtful note and with an expression of sympathy and hope.

Sample Letter of Condolence

Any sample letter that you pick up will always tell you that it is important for such a letter to be heartfelt and genuine. Even if you have never been acquainted with the deceased, it is important that you let the person you are writing the letter know that you are with them in this time of grief and are aware of the hurt they must be feeling. Picking condolence quotes out of a list given on an online resource may make your letter appropriately worded but the sentiment may not come across as true or heartfelt. Given below is a sample that you can use as a guideline while writing a letter of this sort.

Dear Hugh, I was shocked and saddened to hear about the sudden death of Jess. I know how close your family is and the loss of your sister must have come as a tragic blow to you. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Jess was such a lively, witty and cheerful person who would spread happiness all around her. There have been several occasions when Jess has helped me get past the misery I have been feeling. I am sure you remember that one time, when the three of us had gone on a trek and got lost. Without Jess's optimism, I am sure, that the two of us would have given up. The world seems like a lesser place without Jess. I wish there was any way to lessen your grief but I know that is impossible. You know I am here for anything that you need me to do. If you want we could continue going to the old age home, Jess and you used to go every Wednesday. May God bless your family and you during this difficult time. With my deepest sympathy, Alicia

Hopefully, it should be easy for you to draft a condolence letter, now that you have gone through the example given above. Include proper sympathy sayings in your letter. This is very important as you do not want the letter to be inappropriate in any manner. Your letter should serve to make the pain of the family easier and comfort them in any manner possible.