Sympathy Wishes

Sometimes we are at a loss as to whether to send sympathy wishes or not. Here are some helpful rules of etiquette to help you know when it’s time to send a sympathy card or comfort basket.

When to Send Comfort

There are very few rules on what type of occurrence demands sympathy wishes, so you can let your heart guide you. The issue of sympathy etiquette in times of crisis or bereavement usually stems from how close you are to the grieving or sad person. It is proper to send your best wishes to people you don’t know personally, if they're the relatives of someone you did know well who passed on. It’s also appropriate to send wishes to families who are experiencing a life crisis or change.

What Types of Occasions Demand Sympathy?

Death and illness are not the only occasions that merit sympathy. Life-changing events like miscarriages, a loss of long-term relationship, the death of a pet, or the dashing of a dream are all occasions to send a sympathy card or personalized comfort basket. When bad things happen, it’s often the caring of other people that help us pull through our grief and loss. If you are close to someone experiencing any unfortunate life experiences, you can help ease the burden by recognizing their loss with sympathy gifts.

How to Express Your Sympathy

If you don’t have a lot of time to write notes or offer some support in a time of need, you can send already-made sympathy comfort baskets.

Just the fact that you took the time to notice someone else’s pain can act as a salve to soothe the pain of a broken heart. Never let an occasion to show sympathy pass you by. It can help to heal the wound of loss and bring comfort to those who are suffering.