Struggling to find the right words to convey sympathy at a funeral? Even the most well-intentioned comments can come across as hurtful instead of helpful. Here are some common phrases you should never say at a funeral—and what to say instead.
1. Never say “I know how you feel” at a funeral.
2. “Time heals all wounds” is something you should never say at a funeral.
3. Never say “At least he didn’t suffer,” “At least she made it to her birthday,” or “At least she died doing what she loved” at a funeral.
4. “Let me know what I can do” is something you should never say at a funeral.
5. Never say “She’s in a better place” at a funeral.
6. Never say “It was his time” at a funeral.
7. Never say “You need to say goodbye” or “Life must go on” at a funeral.
Check out 5 Tips for Talking with Children About Death.