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Sample Letter of Sympathy Condolence
A letter of sympathy or condolence is often one of the most
difficult letters you will write. You are emotional because
a person has died, but you also want to be careful about what
you write in a letter to their relatives. If you say the right
thing, it can be a source of encouragement and comfort for
many years to come. If you say the wrong thing, the letter
can leave long-lasting scars that sometimes never heal.
Take time to construct your letter of sympathy condolence
carefully. Sometimes it is better to write less, rather than
forcing the issue and causing offence. Hopefully our sample
letter of sympathy outlined below will give you some guidance
on the type of content you might include in your letter.
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As you will see in our sample letter of sympathy, a letter of condolence
has three main elements.
- Firstly, it should contain an initial expression of sympathy.
Show that you recognise and identify with the death of a relative
or friend.
- Secondly, it is good to demonstrate empathy with the person
you are writing to. They have lost a friend or relative, but you
have too. Show that you understand their loss and grief.
- Thirdly, conclude by offering good wishes for the future, and
perhaps some words of comfort they can hold on to in future days.
Remember the purpose of the letter, and don't over-do thing by
writing exhaustively about some event that happened years ago. The
principles are
- A letter of sympathy should contain uplifting words. People
need support and understanding when berieved.
- A letter of condolence should be encouraging. Time moves on
and pain will pass.
- You should demonstrate empathy with their situation and feeling
of loss.
- Don't write more than is necessary or reasonable. Leave the
detail for later.
Our sample letter of sympathy condolence and encouragement below
will give you a base letter to work from. Tailor it to your own
needs and circumstances, and you should be able to write a letter
that meets all the guidelines given above.
Sample letter of sympathy condolence
Sample letter of sympathy condolence
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26
High Street
New Town
Myland
ABC123D
25th
April 2009 |
Dear Steven
It is with great sadness that we have
learned of the loss of your father John. We knew John and
your mother Jane for thirty years, and enjoyed many happy
time with them on vacation.
John was an excellent golfer, and would
always have good ideas for new adventures we could explore.
He gave us support when we needed it, and was always willing
to comfort and encourage where he could.
Please accept our deepest sympathy. Our
memory of John will always be a lovely one.
Yours faithfully
Jim Smith |
- End of sample letter of sympathy condolence -
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