From a box of vintage  “sympathy acknowledgment” cards. The repetition gives the suggested messages a pantoum, sestina-like quality:

For convenience of the user, there is included in each box of Acknowledgment Note Sheets a folder of messages which may be found appropriate and useful.

The following suggestions are offered with the hope they may prove of some aid and convenience in the use of this box of Acknowledgment Note Sheets.

Our sorrow is made easier to bear through the help of friends like you. We want you to know how much we appreciate all that you have done for us during these trying hours.

During a time like this we earn how much our friends really mean to us. Your expressions of sympathy will always be treasured.

Your throughtfulness and sympathy have been most helpful and consoling to us in our bereavement. The lovely flowers were an expression of friendship which will always be a pleasant memory.

In our recent bereavement we found great consolation and comfort in the remembrances of our many friends. Your thoughtfulness will always remain a cherished memory.

Without your sympathy and understanding our loss would have been even more difficult to bear. Our sincere appreciation accompanies this message.

The sympathy and understanding of friends like you have helped so much to lighten the burden of our sorrow. No words can express the full measure of our appreciation.

Your lovely flowers were an expression of true friendship and your thoughtfulness helped to support us in our bereavement.

Your thoughtfulness in our sorrow has meant so much to us. Everything you have done is truly appreciated.

Friends who remember in the hour of sorrow are never forgotten. We want you to know how much we appreciate all that you have done.

Sympathy in the hour of sorrow is something long remembered. Your kindness has been so helpful and all that you have done for us is deeply appreciated.