When someone you love has passed on, it can be difficult to find the right sympathy words to say. You're grieving your own loss, but also know that their family is in a great deal of pain. The words of sympathy you want to convey may seem empty. However, it's important to express your sympathy to your friend or loved one, and you can find examples of sympathy words at ObituariesHelp.org Show they know you care about what they're experiencing. Sympathy words can stand out in the mind of a survivor long after the sharp stab of grief begins to fade.

If you need to write sympathy words, but are unsure where to begin, consider consulting a book or website like ObituariesHelp.org for ideas. There are a wide variety of sample phrases, ideas for sympathy cards, and even entire sample sympathy letters available online. You can use these examples to generate ideas, and then compose the sympathy letter that you've been imagining. This tip is especially useful if you find yourself stuck as to what to say, or if you're experiencing anxiety about writing a sympathy letter.

Sympathy Words Show Support and Acknowledge Grief

Keep in mind, however, that your sympathy message should still be friendly, personable, and show your unique personality. Your loved one needs your emotional support and friendship, not empty sympathy words. If you have a favorite memory of the deceased, a funny story, or an appropriate quotation to share, add them to your sympathy letter. Your sympathy words will hold a touch of your unique personality, making them something to be treasured for years to come.

Take the time to acknowledge the recipient's grief. This may well be the hardest thing they've ever endured, and they may not know where to turn. Don't wait for the perfect words – instead, meet them where they are. Use simple, honest language to show them that you care, and that you're there for them when they need you. Your sympathy words, while they may seem imperfect to you, are sure to show your love and support.

Sympathy Words of Faith and Secular Words of Sympathy

If you know that the recipient of your sympathy messages is religious, it may be appropriate to include a relevant scripture, such as Psalm 23. If you know the deceased's favorite passage, this would also be appropriate to share. After a loss, many are able to find solace in their faith. You can also offer to pray as appropriate, whether for the bereaved family or the deceased. The survivors are sure to appreciate your spiritual and emotional support.

If you know that the family member left behind was not a religious individual, or if you are unfamiliar with their specific spiritual beliefs, you may want to find a secular sympathy card. He or she has lost a loved one and may be angry at the deceased, at the world, and at God. Now is not the time to share your religious beliefs. Instead, use sympathy words that are friendly and comforting, but nondenominational, to avoid alienating your loved one in their time of grief.

Following Up with Sympathy Words

If you are close to the surviving family members, consider following up with more sympathy words a month or so after the funeral. By this time, the initial shock will have begun to fade, and they may be wondering where to begin rebuilding their life. Many of their acquaintances will have lost touch, unsure how to speak to the survivor. You can offer your support by sending a simple sympathy message letting them know you are thinking of them and available to chat. This small gesture will mean more than you can imagine – after all, grief doesn't end after a few weeks.

You can use these tips to write sympathy words that are both personal and appropriate for the occasion. Consult reference sources like those at , but be sure to include unique personal touches. Include a religious reference if appropriate, and follow up after a month or so to show your love and support after the funeral. By following these guidelines, you can write perfect sympathy words each time they're required.