Should i respond to sympathy cards

But how do you acknowledge these expressions of sympathy? And how soon should that be done? Do letters of condolences need to be acknowledged? If you receive commercial sympathy cards simply signed with a name, no. Otherwise, generally yes. Most funeral establishments or crematoria furnish notecard-size thank-you notes. If you have only a handful of letters to respond to for example, sometimes a parent of great age will leave few close friends behind , handwrite a thank you.

In the latter case, you might set aside a handful of meaningful or very special messages to respond to later when you are able to do so.

It truly helped to know we were in your thoughts [and prayers] during these difficult days. The most important thing is that you give yourself all the space you need right now. You should feel what you're feeling and know that it's valid. You should take care of yourself and make sure you are getting all the support you need.

And at any point along the way, you can always ask someone close to you to help convey your thanks until you can do it personally.

Planning Providers The Lately. Blog Podcast. Sign Up Log In. Planning Providers. The Lately. Created with Lunacy. You can follow on Instagram and Pinterest.

Shop Trending Categories. Canvas Wall Art. Baby Shower Gifts. Sympathy Gifts. Wedding Planning. Explore Categories. Kids Gifts. Bridal Shower Gifts. Some guidelines:. When your usual correspondence with a bereaved friend is by email, you can precede a phone call or written condolence with an email—an immediate and non-intrusive way to let him know you are thinking of him. Follow an emailed message with a handwritten note and, whenever possible, attendance at the funeral or visitation.

Many newspapers and funeral homes offer the opportunity on their websites for people to post sympathy messages. The postings can be extensive and some families receive packages of printed copies of the posted condolences. The family may respond with one note that can be published on the website thanking the senders for their support. Handwritten sympathy notes, personal emails, flowers, Mass cards, contributions to charities, and acts of kindness should always be acknowledged by the recipient, if possible.