Sympathy Sentiments

Waking to Tears is book that touches on a subject that very few people discuss – losing a loved one to violence. It is comprised of essays, stories and poems written by people around the world who have lost loved ones to violence.

The moving pieces in this book expose the pain and grief of losing some one close to violence. In sharing these experiences, an awareness and sense of healing is brought about to all of those suffering a tragic loss.

Unfortunately, our society has become over-run with violence. Young and old, all races, religions and classes are affected everyday. That is why this book is a must-read for those who have lost loved ones, and for those who have not, as it will help you to know that you are not alone and that what people are going through in these situations are genuine and life-changing.

Whether or not you have personally lost a loved one to violence, Waking to Tears will touch your deepest emotions.

….can be very difficult, especially if you were not extremely close to the person. Following are a few quick tips to help get you started, which can be the most difficult part. Once you start writing and remembering, thing seem to flow more easily.

The best way to express your condolences would be to send a handwritten, card or a brief letter, addressed to the person in the family to whom you are closest, or to the entire family. Basically, along the lines of: “I was terribly sorry to learn about the death of (person’s name) . May you find comfort in knowing that so many people care and are thinking of you and your family at this time. ”

To make your notes extra special, add a little note that refers to how special that person was, by either sharing a personal story/memory of the deceased or by noting their admirable qualities. If you can offer any assistance (and be prepared to make good on that offer), do so.

Try to keep your message as brief as possible, limiting yourself to about one page, as the person/family will be receiving many expressions of sympathy and will be emotionally drained.