Words of condolences can be some of the hardest to formulate and the most challenging to communicate. You want to simultaneously offer comfort to the person who has suffered the loss, appropriately convey your own sense of mourning, and share your support, love, and peace.
Although finding and expressing the right words during a time of hardship can be difficult, focusing on phrases and sentiments that are heartfelt, sincere, and loving will help convey your sympathy.
Exploring external sources can be a powerful source of inspiration when you’re looking for the right words to say. If you’re religious, Bible verses can help with words of condolence. Famous authors and orators, both past and present, can also offer inspiration for words that communicate your feelings.
Consider these powerful words and pairings when conceptualizing a message of condolence:
· Thoughts and prayers
· Fond memories
· Comfort and strength
· Friends and family
· Peace and comfort
Memorial gifts can also be powerful ways to enhance your words of condolence while honoring someone’s passing. Traditional gifts such as flowers are comforting gestures during a time of loss. Lilies, carnations, roses, orchids, and daffodils are commonly associated with funeral ceremonies, and symbolize eternity, rebirth, love, and remembrance. In some religions such as Judaism, rocks are often placed on the casket instead of flowers.
Other traditional and comforting gifts such as a homemade meal or a framed photo are thoughtful and appropriate gestures to honor the deceased and comfort the family.
Less traditional but equally as thoughtful gifts include puzzles, books, board games, art supplies, gardening tools, or small do-it-yourself projects to provide distraction that help to momentarily relieve loved ones from thoughts of sadness during a difficult time.
Another traditional memorial gift could be a charitable donation in memory of the deceased. If he or she was involved in a particular organization, such as a church, nonprofit group, or extracurricular activity, a donation in their name is a powerful way to honor their memory. Similarly, if the deceased was passionate about an issue, whether it be child literacy, social activism, the environment, the arts, homelessness, medical research, etc., a donation to a cause they cherished will make a powerful statement.
Depending on the circumstances, you might also consider exploring bereavement gifts that honor the deceased or the deceased’s family or spouse. If he or she passed due to terminal illness, joining with others to set up a foundation in the name of the deceased is a powerful tribute. In that same vein, organizing a charity run or walk that raises money for the foundation could be a meaningful way to continue honoring their memory well into the future.
Finally, considering ways to support the surviving family members can also bring solace and comfort. If the deceased passed suddenly, you might want to provide financial support or consider starting a fundraiser for the family. Emotional support is also appreciated as well during this hard time.
About Willow Tree
Providing an intimate line of figurines and sculptures that speak in quiet ways to display the love of family and the quiet joy that love brings to life, Willow Tree® has inspired uniquely moving gift-giving since 1999. Artist Susan Lordi hand carves each original figure from her studio in Kansas City, Missouri. Without facial expressions, these beautiful figurines depict emotion through gestures only… a tilt of the head, placement of the hands, a turn of the body. The simplicity of form and absence of facial features leave Willow Tree figures open for personal emotional interpretation. From her first figures created nearly 20 years ago, Susan inspires meaningful gift-giving from the heart.
Browse memorable gifts from the heart at Willowtree.com
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