Gifts by Sentiment

Sympathy Presents

SEE ALSO Gifts of Comfort

There are many ways to express your sympathy when someone you know loses a loved one. These gifts often take the form of personal service during the immediate bereavement period—providing meals, doing errands, looking after children or pets, or simply being there. Other gifts may serve as lasting memorials to the deceased or as comforting reminders of a life well lived. No matter what type of gift you choose to give, it's likely to be deeply appreciated by the recipient.

Write a letter filled with fond memories of the deceased, or get together with several friends and pool your written recollections.

Sort through your photographs and select some good ones of the deceased to have reprinted for the family. If you have enough, the reprints could be put into a small photo album.

Send flowers, especially weeks after the funeral when the attention has dwindled and the family may be on their own to deal with their grief. (See 1-800-FLOWERS.COM and From You Flowers!)

Prepare meals that can be used both when the house is full of company and later, when it's hard to muster the energy to cook.

Make a donation in the name of the deceased to the charity of the family's choice.

Give the gift of your companionship. A dinner out, a movie, or just spending an afternoon with the bereaved will help make his or her grief more bearable.

Offer to help with funeral arrangements, childcare, or errands during the immediate time of bereavement. Later, help sort and dispense of the deceased's clothes and belongings.

Well-written, heartfelt letters of condolence can bring a great deal of comfort to the grieving. For many, however, these are the most difficult letters to write. There are many books available to help you put your feelings into words. Check your local or on-line bookstore.

Sympathy baskets are popular gifts. Assemble your own or order one from a florist or gift basket store.

Many people find comfort in inspirational books and music. If you are familiar with the bereaved religious beliefs you may be able to find an appropriate book or recording.

SEE ALSO Gifts of Comfort