Loss hurts like hell, and it’s something that each and every one of us will experience at some point in our lives. Everything that lives must also die, and as the years roll along, it’s inevitable that we will lose those close to us, including friends, family members, animal companions, and mentors.
Sorrow may not only be caused by death, but can also be a side-effect of relationship deterioration, be that a romantic connection or a friendship. Although there isn’t any balm that can heal our pain completely, reading messages of sympathy and reassurance may help a great deal. If someone you know has experienced the pain of loss recently, sharing one of the sympathy messages below may lighten their spirits a little bit, and remind them that they are cared about by others. Feel free to re-word them in any way that feels right to you.
Expressions
“I’m sorry. I know those words are inadequate, but I am truly sorry for what you’re experiencing right now. Please let me know if there’s anything I can do to help.”
“Wishing you peace and strength during this difficult time.”
“I cannot take away your pain, but I can listen if you’d like to talk about it.”
“My home is open to you whenever you need it, even if it’s just for a change of scenery and a cup of coffee. You are always welcome.”
“Although no words can really help to ease your loss, know that you are in my thoughts.”
“I cannot even begin to imagine what you’re going through and how difficult all this must be for you. Please know that I am always there for you, whether you need to talk or cry or even just sit in silence with someone.”
“Words, however kind, can’t mend your heartache, but those who care for you share your grief and wish you comfort and peace of mind.”
“I want to help but have no idea how. Please let me know how I can help you?”
“I still miss those I loved who are no longer with me, but I find I am grateful for having loved them. Over time, gratitude has finally conquered the loss.”
“Know that you made an incredible impact on _____’s life, and that they were better and happier for having known you.”
“I am at a loss for words during this sorrowful time, but please know that I am thinking of you and praying for peace and comfort for you and your family.”
“Your emotions are important during this time, and as your friend, I’m happy to help you shoulder them.”
“I’m here for you during this dark time, and will be here for you when the light begins to shine for you again.”
“May the sorrow you feel in your heart lighten by the love that surrounds you.”
“Remember ______’s stories, and how they made you feel; by doing that, part of _____ will always remain with you.”
Quotes to Share
“I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love.” – Leo Buscaglia
“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.” – Gandhi
“I used to have a sign pinned up on my wall that read: ‘Only to the extent that we expose ourselves over and over to annihilation can that which is indestructible be found in us’.” – Pema Chödrön
“What we have once enjoyed we can never lose; all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” – Helen Keller
“In time, it will be the the small, everyday occurrences that you’ll remember most: the laughs, the stories, the smiles. Although it might seem like the pain will never go away, it is these very memories that will help push the sorrow away and bring back happier feelings, in time.”
“Oh heart, if one should say to you that the soul perishes like the body, answer that the flower withers, but the seed remains.” – Kahlil Gibran
“Learn to get in touch with silence within yourself, and know that everything in this life has purpose. There are no mistakes, no coincidences, all events are blessings given to us to learn from.” – Elizabeth Kubler-Ross
“You can’t truly heal from a loss until you allow yourself to really FEEL the loss.” – Mandy Hale
“Perhaps they are not just stars, but rather, openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.”
“Let children walk with Nature, let them see the beautiful blendings and communions of death and life, their joyous inseparable unity, as taught in woods and meadows, plains and mountains and streams of our blessed star, and they will learn that death is stingless indeed, and as beautiful as life.” – John Muir
“It isn’t what happens to us that causes us to suffer; it’s what we say to ourselves about what happens.” – Pema Chödrön
“Everyone who lives long enough to love deeply will experience great losses. Don’t let fear of loss, or the losses themselves, take away your ability to enjoy the wonderful life that is yours.” – Barbara Cooper
“If ever there is tomorrow when we’re not together…there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think, but the most important thing is, even if we’re apart… I’ll always be with you.” – Winnie the Pooh
“Like a bird singing in the rain, let grateful memories survive in time of sorrow” – Robert Louis Stevenson
“The most authentic thing about us is our capacity to create, to overcome, to endure, to transform, to love and to be greater than our suffering.” – Ben Okri
Time will eventually alleviate some of the pain that loss brings, but it’s important to remember that sorrow and pain needn’t be suffered alone: there are always people who are willing to help. If you or someone you care about is suffering, please take advantage of counselors at your school or workplace, or call a help line. Don’t face it alone.
