Condolences to Newtown, Connecticut

No words can comfort those who have endured the horrendous killing of children and adults at the Sandy Hook Elementary School yesterday. The terrible tragedy is beyond understanding.

Yet some people who know the suffering families and individuals in Newtown will want to share a note of condolence in addition to helping in other ways. If you are among those people, I offer you these examples as models. They include made-up names.

Dear Maris and Joe,

Words cannot express the sorrow and shock we feel at your suffering. Please know that we hold you constantly in our thoughts and prayers and that we are available to help in any way. 

In deep sympathy,

Kathleen and John

__________________________

Dear Chris,

Please accept my deepest condolences on the tragic death of your beautiful daughter. I cannot think of anything to say that can comfort you in your sorrow. But I want you to know I am thinking of you and sharing in your grief.

Sincerely,

Annika

__________________________

Dear Thomas,

I cannot imagine the sorrow and shock you must be experiencing. Margaret was such a lovely woman and was completely dedicated to the children she taught. Her death sickens us all.

Know that I am holding you, your family, and your community in my heart and mind. 

With sincere condolences,

Nina  

I have shared sample condolences messages many times on this blog, and it saddens me deeply to need to do it again because of the tragic deaths in Newtown. Nevertheless, I hope these examples are helpful in some way.

Lynn
Syntax Training

Comments

[Bonnie]

I am so sorry to hear of such a terrible tragedy. My heart is with you at this time. Know this that you have a friend here in Ontario, Canada who cares. A hug of care for all of the victims famlies.

[Nina]

Thanks for providing these, Lynn. I don't know anyone who was immediately affected by the tragedy, but I do know the complete blank that can hit even a seasoned writer when a note of condolence is called for. And for a tragedy like this ... words fail. I'm going to pass this post on to others.

[ilyas]

:((

[Lynn Gaertner-Johnston]

Thank you, Bonnie, Nina, and Ilyas, for your supportive comments.

Lynn

[Val S.]

Lynn, your examples of condolence letters are always so well written. I think there's usually a tendency for people to try to find something positive to add, but for the families there is nothing positive at the moment. Your examples acknowledge their profound grief with respect and empathy. Thank you for the examples.

[Lynn Gaertner-Johnston]

Hi, Val. Thanks for bringing up the topic of positive content in condolence messages. As you indicated, such content would not be appropriate in this horrible situation.

Lynn

[hassan]

thank you for sharing this prefect words with us