What to Write in a Sympathy Card to a Friend
With a close friend you can drop the card voice entirely. Write the way you talk to them, and make one offer you will actually keep.
Write the way you speak
- 1
I have started this card four times. I am so sorry, mate.
- 2
This is rubbish and I am sorry and I love you.
- 3
No wisdom here. Just me, on your side, for as long as this takes.
- 4
I am so sorry. Ring me at three in the morning if you need to — I mean that literally.
- 5
I do not know what to do so I am going to keep doing small things until one of them helps.
Offers a friend can actually make
- 6
I am taking the kids Saturday. Not asking, telling.
- 7
Your fridge will be full on Wednesday. Leave the door on the latch.
- 8
I will come and sit in the same room and not talk. You know I can do it.
- 9
I am handling the phone calls this week. Send me the list.
- 10
I have booked Friday off. Tell me on Thursday what you want it spent on.
Later on
- 11
Two months. Still here. Still yours.
- 12
I know today is the anniversary. Thinking of you and of him.
- 13
You are allowed to be fine today and wrecked tomorrow. Both are welcome here.
Questions people actually ask
Should a sympathy card to a close friend be formal?
No. With a close friend the card voice is the wrong voice — write as you would text them, and put one keepable offer at the end.