Expressing your sorrow for one's loss can be difficult. If you're someone like me; whose default mode is to make people smile and laugh, then it can become a very large feat. However sometimes we need to put the urge to make people smile away and simply be there for them in any way possible. We can do so whether it be a physical appearance at the wake, funeral or sending our condolences from across the country. Our feelings are genunine, our heartfelt sympathies we want to send, along with these we can choose to send flowers and cards to the family, donate money to a favorite charity of the deceased, or help out in some other manner. However we choose to express ourselves one of the roadblocks we face is "How do I sign the card?" It seems like a small detail but if you are unable to be there for a visit, bring a meal or hug out your condolences to the families then words take on a bit more importance.
There isn't a right or wrong way to express sympathy but there are quite a few expressions which will lead you in the appropriate direction if you find yourself a loss for words.
With our heartfelt condolences
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Thinking of you in these difficult times
With loving thoughts to comfort you at this time
Please know our loving thoughts embrace you.
May the peace which comes from the memories of love shared comfort you now and in the days ahead.
Our hearts are filled with sorrow.
Fondest remembrances
Healing wishes for you and your family.
May your loving memories ease your mind during this difficult time
May you all find comfort and strength in the warmth and caring of friends and family
Granted, these expressions are a small sampling and by all means not the only ones appropriate to use. Yet if you're like me; it is very helpful to have a starting point when the mind is blank, the need to say something is very important and you are not sure where to begin.
If you are someone whom words flow effortlessly then don't be limited to the small space of a greeting card. Write a letter! Just remember the purpose of writing a letter is to honor the deceased and support the bereaved. Do not dwell on details such as cause of death or previous pain and suffering; instead include a personal story about the deceased which highlights their unique qualities.
If you are offering help or support in the letter, be specific about what you would like to do. Visiting and cooking a meal? Doing the grocery shopping for the week or watching the kids for awhile? There are so many ways to show your support; and any effort will be appreciated.
We have the words covered on how to begin to send condolences so it is time to take a glance at one of my favorite forms of expression. It doesn't require many letters but has the capability of saying all the words which end up getting jumbled along the way from my eloquent mind to my "uhh...." mouth and/or paper! Flowers. Elegant, graceful, diginified, sweet, simple or sophisticated, blooms in an arrangement become moving pieces of sincerity and love. The tradition of sending flowers is longstanding and remains the most popular way to extend sympathy and condolences to the bereaved and give tribute to the deceased. Arrangements can be sent to the wake, funeral service, and to the family's home after the service. There are a variety of designs and options available; the styles range from traditional to contemporary and can incorporate keepsake items for the family to take home and keep in remembrance . If you are looking for something longer lasting than flowers and not keen on keepsakes another great alternative is a planter. A green thumb isn't required to maintain this living tribute and can brighten a room or office for years. Case in point, I have two planters from over seven years ago. One as a congratulations for our first baby and another sent for sympathy of my father-in-law's passing. I enjoy seeing these gifts and tending to them by watering, removing old leaves, cutting back, etc, is therapeutic and calming.
Words of comfort, flowers, plants, keepsakes, letters, hugs, fresh baked cookies, homemade lasagna; these are all ways we can express ourselves to someone during their time of joy, grief, and everything in between. A common thread among all of these avenues of expression is there isn't an expiration date. They can be done at any time and your thoughtfulness, caring, and support will be appreciated.
The Gillespie Florists staff is comprised of friendly and caring people who are ready to help you express yourself with flowers in times of joy, sympathy, or just because. For inspiration and/or ideas for the next occasion to convey your words via the scenic expressway of flowers, visit our website, give us a call, or just stop in. We are happy to send your warm thoughts in the most beautiful way possible.
Visit our Sympathy page to view a sampling of our work!
