Sympathy Cards Offer Comfort during Difficult Times

Over the years I have sent many sympathy cards to family, friends and colleagues as well as business sympathy cards to acquaintances at work. I’ve never really given much thought to how these greeting cards are received or the words that are expressed inside of them. That is until I was on the receiving end; Two years ago I lost my husband of thirty-two years very suddenly.

After the shock of that experience wore off, I had the opportunity to go through all the greeting cards, condolence notecards, and flower cards that were sent immediately after his death. While the words of love and sympathy that were expressed by family and friends were very much welcome, it was some of the sympathy cards and notes that I received from total strangers that made some of the most lasting impressions. These greeting cards were from people that I had never met, but that my husband had dealings with in his job. I’ve always thought of my husband as a very honest, kind and ethical person. To have strangers confirm in these greeting cards what I have always known was very comforting. To know that he made a lasting impression in people’s lives makes my children and me very proud.

Sympathy Cards for the Loss of a Pet

Dealing with the death of a loved one is a devastating life event. We often use sympathy cards to connect with people during these difficult times. I often feel that I should not approach someone in person as I do not want to make them cry as well. I cannot do it myself without breaking down into tears. How do you tell someone how sorry you are for their loss? Sometimes it is easier to express your feelings in personal sympathy cards.

It is equally devastating when a person loses their pet. Pets have become important members of many American families, providing enjoyment, companionship, and unconditional love for their owners. There are now all kinds of services for pets including health insurance, day care, “hotels” instead of kennels, and even greeting cards.

As my own children grew up and moved out on their own, I began to acquire cats. Actually, the cats somehow found me, probably knowing what a soft heart I have when it comes to four-legged, furry friends. Both of my children brought home a stray cat before leaving home, so my two cats eventually became the four I now have. Over the years, I have lost three cats and was devastated for a long time after each of them passed on. Princess, Callie, and most recently Baby are gone now, but the mere mention of their names still brings tears to my eyes.

If you know someone who has lost a pet, do not hesitate to express your condolences by sending sympathy cards. Their pet was a very precious part of their life. It was not “just a cat” or “just a dog” and they are never replaceable because each animal is a unique being. If you cannot find the right words to express yourself in person, send sympathy cards. There are greeting cards available specifically for pet loss, but you can certainly use traditional sympathy cards. Thoughtfully chosen sympathy cards or notecards with handwritten sentiments let the recipient know you are thinking of them. Their loss is real and they need to know that others do care.

Business Sympathy Cards are Greatly Appreciated

In times of loss, the support and well wishes of family, friends, coworkers, and even business associates provide a level of comfort needed during such difficult times. Sympathy cards convey comforting messages in a very soft, reassuring manner. These greeting cards will help you express your sympathy condolences when support is needed the most.

In the corporate world, I feel that everyone should have business sympathy cards on hand to send to an associate or client to pay your respects. Business sympathy cards bring comfort and support that will be remembered. During difficult times, any kindness is welcomed by the family and the simple gesture of sending sympathy cards will be appreciated by those coping with the loss of a loved one. When coworkers or clients receive business sympathy cards, they’ll know that they are thought of and their business relationships are valued.

I feel sympathy cards are under-utilized, perhaps due to the difficult nature of the occasion. It’s certainly more enjoyable to send corporate birthday cards and holiday cards to business associates and clients, but reaching out during times of grief is much more meaningful and can help offer some solace. I truly feel that sympathy cards are important to send. The comforting message you provide by sending sympathy cards matters and will be greatly appreciated.

Sympathy Cards Help to Show That you Care

When an employee suffers a loss, an employer can find itself at a loss as well. How do you extend your sympathies and condolences? Although it can be hard to know the right thing to say or do, giving sympathy cards to employees who are going through a difficult time is always an appropriate gesture.

There really is no easy way to handle this type of situation but you want to make sure that you extend your sympathy and show that you value your employees. It is important to show support for a colleague who has experienced a loss. A simple and heartfelt “I’m sorry for your loss” can let a person know that he or she is thought of during a difficult time.

The 35 or 40 hours a week that employees spend at their jobs is sometimes more than they spend with their own families. It is said by many that once you become comfortable at a job your coworkers become your second family. This is the case for many employees at my company. We share in each other’s triumphs as well as challenges, often expressing ourselves with greeting cards through life’s ups and downs.

By having a box of business sympathy cards at your side, you can easily have a suitable card on hand to give to employees, ensuring that they know their second family cares for them when it counts the most.