Avoid Being Rude Through These Statements for Sympathy Cards
Signing a sympathy card is not an easy thing to do. It can be emotional and intimidating at times to use the right words that provide the comfort and compassion we wish to extend for our loved ones. However, at times, even the things said out of goodwill somehow to end up acting like a trigger for the one undergoing grief or a loss. One can have the purest intentions to convey their condolences with a thoughtful, yet end up hurting the recipient. Following are some of the popular statements used in sympathy cards that might be more offensive than soothing:
STAY STRONG
This is probably one of the most overrated statements being used in sympathy cards. Be it a sudden demise of a loved one or a traumatic accident, at that moment, this is the last thing one wants to hear. Of course, one knows that he/ she needs to stay strong but at that moment of vulnerability and pain, one needs to soak it all in and probably need time to process and make sense of things.
YOU’LL GET THROUGH IT
This is another insensitive statement which is usually said out of good intentions but is actually rude. At the moment of suffering and trauma, a person needs to feel supported, loved and positively validated. Words like “you will get through this” dismisses the feelings of grief and undermines the emotional suffering of one undergoing pain. A grieving person shouldn’t feel like he/ she needs to hide his/ her emotions.
EVERYTHING HAPPENS FOR A REASON
This is especially inconsiderate when one has undergone a traumatic loss of a very close friend/ relative/ spouse/ romantic partner. Its never easy to lose someone we love. Also, if you are writing a sympathy card for someone who has undergone a severe injury or accident where one might not be able to resume a normal life, this statement can prove to be highly toxic for them. To be honest, no reason can seem to justify that loss. Instead, you can use statements like, “Let me how can i help you in such a difficult time”, “Extending my deepest condolences.”
HE/ SHE HAS GONE TOO SOON
Stating the obvious is not going to make your loved one feel any better. Grief is a unique and complicated process for everyone. Especially, when its a loss of a close one, no words or actions can replace the emptiness. Instead, express sincere condolences as per your relationship equation with that person.
I TOTALLY UNDERSTAND HOW YOU FEEL
To be honest, no ne can understand the loss of a person. What might not be that important for you can mean everything for the other person. Share a brief memory or offer support/ assistance and then follow through.
To be honest, there’s no perfect way to write sympathy cards. If you feel troubled to write a perfect message, try placing yourself into other’s shoes and imagine how would you feel if someone wrote the same statement to you. Harnel offers a variety of sympathy cards with ready-made and personalized options that helps you convey your message in the right tone. Browse our website to access our collection of decorative ethical greeting cards for different occasions.
