When talking about bereavement and loss “sympathy” is a commonly used word. For example – “we offer or extend our sympathy to someone for their loss”. But what exactly is sympathy? What is the difference between empathy and sympathy? And how can understanding those differences help with the way we support and are there for … Read more
Writing a eulogy is really difficult. Finding the right words to express your feelings about the deceased, remembering those special moments and memories of them, not getting overwhelmed by the emotions – that’s before thinking about the things you need to avoid saying and making sure it’s appropriate for the family. There’s so much involved. … Read more
Writing a eulogy comes down to five things: gather your memories and stories, decide on a structure, write it the way you’d actually speak, keep it to three to five minutes and read it aloud before the day. You’re not writing a biography. What you’re tying to do is paint a picture of who they … Read more
‘My heart goes out to you’ is often used when sending or offering condolences to those who have lost a loved one. It’s a touching few words that express your sadness and thoughts to those who are going through such a difficult time. But even though it’s a lovely sentiment you may feel like you … Read more
When you are sending someone a sympathy card, text message or offering your condolences to those who have suffered a loss you may find yourself saying ‘with deepest sympathy’. It’s one of the most widely used phrases and ways to end a sympathy message. It’s a touching sentiment that shows you’re understanding and empathy for … Read more
When there is a national tragedy or just the passing away of a loved one then a condolence book is often opened to leave messages of sympathy. But knowing what to write in a condolence book can be both difficult and worrying. You don’t want to write the wrong thing but at the same time … Read more
If you’re sending flowers or a wreath to a funeral you may be worrying about what to say. It can be hard to know what to write on a funeral wreath. How can you be expected to find the right words to remember or say goodbye to someone you loved. You only get one chance … Read more
When your mom has sadly passed away it inevitably means there will be a funeral. And so you will want to pay your respects to your mother. That might mean just by being there, giving a eulogy or reading, or with some special funeral flowers that were special to your mom. Flowers are traditional at … Read more
When there is a natural disaster, something like an earthquake or tsunami, the devastation can be massive. Sadly many lives are lost and homes destroyed. It is a time of both national and personal loss, grief and sadness. To the people affected it will be heartbreaking to have lost their loved ones. You may be … Read more
When someone you know has to go into a hospice it can be a scary and upsetting time. Sadly a hospice is where those who are terminally ill are looked after, which means they won’t be coming home. That means you’re talking to someone who is coming to the end of their life. Knowing the … Read more