What to say and write in a text
When it comes to expressing your deepest sympathies to someone who has recently lost a friend or family member or mourning the loss of any other life changing situation, a sympathy text message may be suitable in ‘certain’ circumstances.
A supportive sympathy text, for example, is a thoughtful way to let that person know you’re thinking of them, but only if you regularly text with them. A condolence text, on the other hand, may seem out of place if you’ve hardly ever exchanged text messages before. Similarly, if the person grieving is a close family member or your best friend, a text message would be inappropriate because it isn’t personal enough for the relationship.
Consider your relationship with that person and whether a brief text message would bring them comfort in their hour of need. If you choose to send a text expressing your deepest sympathies, I still recommend sending a sympathy card or making a phone call. You could also let them know in your text that they don’t need to respond, which may relieve some of the pressure they’re under to respond to everyone who has sent their sympathies.
What to write in different occasions
Knowing what to write grieving friend can be intimidating and incredibly hard. It does not, however, have to feel either impossible or challenging. I’ve compiled a list of text messages you could write depending on the situation your friend is facing. Showing your support can make a significant difference in their feelings of loneliness following loss and heartbreak.
Thinking of you
~ Please know that I'm thinking of you and your family during this difficult time!
~ My heart aches for you and your loved ones right now. Please know that I'm sending all of my love and thoughts to you
~ I'm devastated by the news of your friends passing. You're in my thoughts.
~ My family and I are so sorry for your loss. May peace be with you during this difficult time.
Loss of mom or dad
~ Your mother was a loving and caring woman. We will all miss her dearly.
~ I’ll always remember your dad's big heart and contagious laugh. I’m thinking of you and your mom.
~ I'm devastated by the news of your dad's passing. My heart aches for you and your brother right now. Please know that you're in my thoughts.
~ Please accept my deepest sympathies as you grieve the loss of your sweet grandmother
~ We may have lost your father in the physical sense, but his spirit will live on through all the lessons he taught us over the years.
Offer help
~ I’m so saddened by the news. I’d love to bring by a meal, help run any errands you might need help with, or take care of the kids, I'll swing by tomorrow to see where I can help out with.
~ I’m so sad about your loss. I know nothing will make you feel better, but I’m sending over a casserole for your family this evening, so dinner is one less thing you have to worry about tonight.
~ You are a great friend, and I hate to see you going through this. Can I take you out for coffee this week?
Sending you love
~ It’s difficult finding the right words to say, but please know I’m sending all my love your way.
~ With a heavy heart, I send my love and sympathy to you and your family
~ I understand you may need your space right now. Please know that I’m always thinking of you. I love you, and I’m sending my condolences.
~ My heart goes out to you and your family. You have our deepest sympathies.
~ I know I can’t do anything to make you feel better, but please know I’m sharing in your grief. Betty was an incredible friend, and we’ll all miss her so much.
Loss of a family member
~ I was deeply saddened to hear of your grandfather’s passing. He was a wonderful man, and I’m so glad I had the chance to spend time with him.
~ I offer you my heartfelt condolences. May your beautiful sister rest in peace.
~ I feel honored that I had the opportunity to get to know and love your aunt. She was a bright light in this world, and her absence will be felt by many.
~ We may have lost your father in the physical sense, but his spirit will live on through all the lessons he taught us over the years.
~ We’re toasting your brother and celebrating his beautiful life right now, just as we know he would have wanted. Take care, and know I’m sending my love.
~ I offer you my heartfelt condolences. May your beautiful sister rest in peace.
~ I feel honored that I had the opportunity to get to know and love your aunt. She was a bright light in this world, and her absence will be felt by many.
Loss of a child
~ I loved your son like he was my own. I am absolutely heartbroken. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
~ My heart goes out to you and your family. You have our deepest sympathies.
~ I hope the memories of your grandson will provide you with peace and comfort during your time of sorrow. You and your family are in my thoughts.
~ Please accept my deepest sympathies as you grieve the loss of your sweet daughter.
~ I’ll never forget your daughter’s kindness and compassion. May you find comfort in knowing she left a beautiful mark on everyone she met.
~ I’m so sorry for your loss. I love you, and I’m here for you always. I’ll call you next week to check in.
Divorce
~I’m very sorry that things have ended between you two
~ We will make it through this — together. I’m here to help you. You are not alone.
~ If you want to vent, I’m here.Your kids have a rockstar mom
~ It’s difficult finding the right words to say, but please know I’m sending all my love your way.
~ I know you’re going through a lot. You’re going to have good days, and you’re going to have bad days. I’m here for all of them. I hope today is a good one.
~ I understand you may need your space right now. Please know that I’m always thinking of you. I love you, and I’m sending you warm hugs. .
Be that friend who cares!
Remember, the worst thing you can do is to say nothing at all. As long as you speak from your heart, whatever you write is sure to offer comfort to your loved one during this difficult time.