Finding The Right Words
How to say what you want to say for any occasion
Birthday
No matter how many candles decorate the cake, our birthday is one day of the year we can call on own. Thoughts and wishes of friends and family add to our celebration of life’s journey. “Milestone” birthdays mark the thrill of being old enough to get a driver’s license to the satisfaction of looking back on years well-lived. Adding a personal note will make your birthday wishes even more meaningful.
Offer what you consider to be the most important aspect of your relationship with the recipient.
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Our long friendship has meant so much to me.
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I’m proud to be your sister!
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It’s a pleasure to work with you at the clinic/on the committee/at church.
If it’s an acknowledged “big one”, refer to the special event.
12 years old – you’re a teenager now!
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It’s the big 5-0 and life’s just begun.
Wishing you love to surround you on your 90th birthday.
If there has been a recent loss, or if the day is not going to be “happy”.
I realize it’s a sad time for you, but I want you to know I’m thinking of you on your birthday.
Warm thoughts and prayers are with you on your birthday and everyday
Thank You
Mother’s advice to “say ‘thank-you,’ then name the gift,” still holds true. And it’s easy to give your note just a bit of sparkle by adding something specific that lets the recipient know the gift was perfect….the dinner was delightful…or the thoughtful gesture was appreciated.
Gifts from friends, family and associates
You know how much I like earrings – thank you for picking these out especially for me.
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I appreciate your thoughtfulness to our family during the holidays. Fresh fruit is such a treat at this time of year!
For hospitality
It was wonderful to be in your warm and inviting home.
We are still talking about the delightful dinner and great conversation.
For thoughtful gestures and support
The time you’ve taken to listen and care through these difficult months means more to me than words can say.
Your willingness to help me on the committee has made the job so much easier – and the results so much better!
Teaching children to write thank-you notes
Make decorative cards. If the child is very young, allow him or her to “draw a picture” instead of write.
Let the child see you address the card and drop it in the mail. If you hear from the recipient, tell the child how much his or her note meant.
(If you are embarrassed that you took so long to write, say so, but still send a thank-you note, even if time has passed.)
Wedding & Anniversary
A new beginning…the celebration of many years together – wedding days and anniversaries call for the heartiest of best wishes. It’s a time to let ideals, dreams, and happy memories shine…a time to celebrate the love that brings and holds two people together.
A simple expression warm congratulations is always appropriate
Best wishes on your wedding day!
With warmest thoughts of you on your wedding day/your 20th anniversary.
Blessings on your wedding day/on the occasion of your 35th anniversary.
Remembering you as you celebrate your silver/golden wedding anniversary.
Additional words may affirm, support, or encourage the couple, as appropriate
I’m so glad you found each other!
Wishing you many blessing as you begin your new life together.
May the love you have for each other be a blessing to you and your new family.
Your long-lasting love for each other is an inspiration.
Your love has stood the test to time – the truest measure of love.
Congratulation to both of you as you renew your wedding vows.
Lengthy or Serious Illness
“Get well soon!” rings hollow when an illness pans weeks and even months – or when the doctors offer the patient little hope of full recovery. At these trying times, it’s more important than ever to remind those suffering that others are thinking of them. The comfort of a warm note or a visit may prove to be the best medicine of all.
I’m thinking about you and hoping the day brings you rest and comfort.
I know the treatments are not a picnic – I admire your strength and courage.
Need anything done around the house? I can help on Saturdays and most evenings.
We can’t do some of the things we used to do together, but I still enjoy our visits so much.
Always keep in mind that you have the support of your family and friends during this difficult time.
Remembering you and keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
Sympathy
At times of loss, words are difficult. We want to extend comfort to someone who has lost a beloved spouse, parent or grandparent, but we don’t know what to say, or we’re afraid of saying the wrong thing. Yet this is the time for words. A few words can comfort a broken heart…a personal memory can bring a smile to a tear-stained face…the assurance of our support can offer a hand to someone who walks alone in grief.
I am sorry to hear of the loss of your mother.
Your husband was a very special man and will be missed by everyone who knew him.
Your grandfather’s stories of his life growing up on the farm still make me smile. He will be missed.
May the caring thoughts of those who love you comfort you at this time of sorrow.
The years were too few, but the love was great. I am sorry beyond words at the loss of your daughter.
She fought her illness with courage and dignity…and now she has found peace.
On the death of a pet
You’ve lost a beloved friend and companion in Sammy. I’m so sorry.
Tabby is a part of so many happy memories – I’m saddened to hear of your loss.
I know ho much you’ll miss your beloved Polly – I hope you know how much I care.
Juno had a happy life because of your love and care.
