How to Write a Sympathy Card

Sorrow is something which heals alone with time! There is no better remedy than time that can take away the grief of a person who is undergoing a traumatic phase in his or her life. Such phases could be death of a near and dear one or a messy divorce! In such times, silence is the best medicine and sympathy cards become pillars of strength for the grieving person, letting him know that there is a world that cares for him! Well, if you know someone, who is going through not-so-good times in life, and you somehow want that person to know that there is someone whom he can bank upon in such trying times, a sympathy card is the best way to convey the message.

What to Write in a Sympathy Card?
Many a time, people are not sure what to write in a sympathy card, as it is a time when one falls short of words of condolence. Below are a few sympathy card etiquette on what to say in a sympathy card.

Empathize...
Before preparing sympathetic verses, imagine yourself in the shoes of the suffering person. Answer those unheard questions like "What can help things get better?", "What does the mind want to hear?". A self questionnaire should help well in starting with how to write a sympathy card.

Be personal but brief...
A time when the troubled person is not able to perceive things in a sane state of mind, your sympathy card should be very concisely framed. If it is a demise, it should mention the deceased's name and cause of the unfortunate happening. Besides, the sadness in your heart and the sympathetic gesture should be evident in the sympathy card, honestly stating how you feel about it. The personal touch that goes with this card does lessen the sadness, making the person realize that there are people who care. Do NOT get overly dramatic or repeat the cause of an unfortunate event too many times.

Offer encouragement...
Encouragement is one of the medicines which a person badly needs in the most painful phase of his life. A gesture of encouragement in the sympathy card will make the person realize that there is a long way to go and hope has to sustain. Offer condolences but make sure you do not make the person feel the untimely loss (like death) time and again. In case of demise, a subtle mention of positive memories of the deceased can be highlighted that can possibly help the bereaved person cherish the good memories he had in his lifetime with the deceased. Some humorous incidents can also be mentioned to pep up the grieving atmosphere, a little bit.

Show them you care...
The best way to console someone is to show them, you care. Kind offers such as "Let me know, if there is anything I can do", "Do not worry, we are there for you", will make the person feel better in such uncertain times. A repetitive gesture will show your sensitivity and sincerity towards the person's well-being. Even the offer to help running domestic errands, help with the children or writing eulogies (for demise) are earnest gestures that will make your sympathy card all the more honest and sincere.

So now that you know what to say in a sympathy card, you may also refer to some condolence message examples to make the sympathy card concise and crisp.

Sympathy Card Messages
Here are some condolence message samples that can be used when writing a sympathy card.

".....I know how it feels.....But do not be sad, as I am there, by your side.....and you are always there in my prayers....." (For a condolence)

".....Losing a pet is like losing a child. I am enclosing a few picnic snaps of our dear Daniel, along with this card. Hope, the cherished memories return a smile on your face....." (For a deceased pet)

".....One never knows how strong one really is, unless and until being strong is the only option one has.....I know this separation has been a trying time for you.....but then do not feel lonely. We are all there to help you whenever you need us. Brighter times await you......" (For a divorce)

".....I am not good with words. But hope this card conveys what is deep inside my heart for you....." (A note that is straight and sincere)

"......This card is to let you know that you are in my thoughts and prayers at this time and I am deeply sorry for the untimely loss of....." (A direct message)

".....Offer condolences....." (Simple and crisp)

So, these were some ways on how to sign a sympathy card. Hope this article has helped you understand on how to write a sympathy card, with the above examples of sympathy sayings. At the most difficult times, even the strongest people crumble down in sorrow. A shoulder to lean on, and kind words of sympathy is all they need in such arduous times and your sympathy card does it! As I conclude this article, I would like to share a beautiful quote with you readers:

"When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight." ~ Kahlil Gibran"

That's what a sympathy card is all about!