Sympathy Ideas

How to keep on helping

Holidays...anniversaries...any number of special days, events or memories can prompt grief even years after a loved one has died. Show them you understand...and that you will never stop caring. Here are some ideas to consider.

1. Invite them to your family's holiday gathering.
Even if you know they have family, invite your grieving friends to your holiday gathering. Make sure they have companions for the major events of the holiday season. This can include shopping, going to religious services, attending company or school parties, and attending other holiday gatherings.

2. Send cards or flowers on the anniversary of the death.
Grief often intensifies on the anniversary of a loved one's death. Let them know that you haven't forgotten their loss by sending a special remembrance. Send a card with a simple "thinking of you" message. Make a phone call to ask how they're doing. Deliver flowers, a plant, or even a tree as a living memorial to their loved one.

3. Remember birthdays, anniversaries and holidays.
Think of all the days that can evoke sadness. Think of all the times a person would most miss a loved one. These times include birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays such as Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Father's Day, religious holidays, and long holiday weekends. Think of those days when your friend might be especially missing her loved one. Then simply send a "thinking of you" card, letter or e-mail on that day.

When you share your support in meaningful ways with those who are grieving, you share a gift they will remember—and cherish—forever.