So to start off comforting someone, simply describe what you’re seeing/sensing. Say something like, “I know you’re having such a hard time with this,” or “I’m sorry you’re hurting so much.” Also affirm that you hear what they’re saying by saying it back to them in your own words.

The Best Things to Say to Someone in Grief

• I am so sorry for your loss.
• I wish I had the right words, just know I care.
• I don’t know how you feel, but I am here to help in any way I can.
• You and your loved one will be in my thoughts and prayers.
• My favorite memory of your loved one is…
• I am always just a phone call away.

Rule 4: Let them feel They may need to cry for days on end,” wrote Kathryn Janus. In other words, don’t say things like, “Stay strong” or “Be strong.” Indeed, the most helpful thing anyone said to Teresa Brewer in her time of loss was, “Whatever you are feeling, and whenever you are feeling it, it’s O.K.”

How to Sign a Sympathy Card

1. “My deepest condolences”
2. “With sympathy”
3. “Keeping you in our prayers”
4. “Wishing you peace”
5. “Thinking of you”

sympathy with another in sorrow

Respond to in-person condolences with a genuine “thank you.” People understand that you’ll be emotional or in pain. When they say “I’m sorry for your loss,” they just want you to know that they support you, and won’t be expecting a longer conversation. A simple “thank you” works.

First Words to Express Your Sympathies So sorry to hear of _______’s passing. Please accept our heartfelt sympathies on the loss of your loved one. Words can’t express how saddened we are to hear of your loss. Our sincere sympathies to you and your family.

When sending words of comfort for sympathy purposes, you will want to make sure your message is empathic and sincere. The words of comfort you are sending may be for the loss of a loved one, loss of employment, or an illness.

Examples

• “Hope you get to feeling better soon!”
• “Looking forward to seeing you back at practice when you’re ready.”
• “Wishing you well.”
• “Take extra good care!”
• “Here’s to you—steadier, stronger and better every day.”
• “We hope you’re taking it slow and easy right now.”
• “Take your sweet time getting well!”

Here are some more ideas.

1. I hear you have an illness in your family, I’ll be thinking of you all.
2. I know we never really talk, but I wanted to let you know I’m here.
3. If you ever need a listening ear or want to grab a coffee, I’m around.
4. I just wanted to let you know I’m praying for your family.

Phrases

1. accept our most sincere condolences.
2. after such a long illness.
3. although expected.
4. couldn’t have asked for more devoted care.
5. devotion helped her through this last illness.
6. during her final days.
7. express my deepest sympathy.
8. extend our heartfelt sympathy.

In Plato’s Apology (29a-b), Socrates agues that he does not fear death; indeed, to fear death is a sign of ignorance.

Send a Note or Card

1. Sample 1. Dear Martha, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Your mother was one of the sweetest women I’ve ever known.
2. Sample 2. Dear Sylvia, I’m sorry to hear about your mother’s passing.
3. Sample 3. Dear George, I’d like to send my heartfelt sympathy on the loss of your mom.

The safest is to simply share your sympathy (support, encouragement) by saying the following:

1. I’m sorry to hear about your loss.
2. My most sincere condolences.
3. My/Our thoughts are with you.
4. Thinking of you in your time of loss.
5. You have my/our deepest sympathy.
6. You have my/our sincere sympathy.

Here are a few things to say when someone you know is in the hospital:

1. “I am thinking of you.”
2. “You’re doing great.”
3. “I pray that you feel better.”
4. “Nothing can stop you – get well soon!”
5. “Sending healing energy your way.”
6. “Wishing you a very speedy recovery!”
7. “I love you!”