 Condolence
Flowers & Gift Baskets
It is never easy comforting a relative, friend or associate who has lost
a loved one. People are often uncertain as to the best way to show their
sympathy. Adding to this uncertainty are changing trends in how Americans
commemorate the death of a loved one. Services are simpler and shorter.
Viewing periods are now typically limited to one day, if they occur at
all. A greater number of cremations have resulted in shorter or no memorial
services.
Flowers have traditionally been sent to the funeral home for display during
the viewing and service. However, this does not mean that there should
be no show of sympathy if no service is held. Grief therapists agree that
the rituals surrounding death are an aid in the grieving process. In instances
where there is no service, experts recommend sending condolences to the
bereaved person or family's home.
Science as well as experts agrees that people find comfort and meaning
in memorial or condolence flower arrangements. The bereaving often find
condolence flowers and sympathy cards to the most meaningful gifts they
can receive when sadness and pain seem to surround them.
Beautiful flowers have long been representative of the cycle of life
and death. Because they can also symbolize hope, flowers serve to encourage
the bereaved. Blossoms provide a simple diversion during memorial services
when there may be few other positive influences.
As symbols of hope, happiness, and sorrow, flowers are an ideal medium
of communication for times when you can't put your feelings into words.
Though any gift of flowers will generally be appreciated immensely, there
are some general guidelines and recommendations for choosing and sending
sympathy flowers.
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