In whatever language, expressing our thanks is but one of many polite-isms we hopefully use with great frequency.
There is a difference between the heartfelt, look you in the eye kind of thank you and the one the teacher does their best to extrapolate from their student. And isn’t it a great feeling when you hear your kiddie, unprompted by you, say “Thank you” to someone? I love this! In fact, let’s just stand there for a moment and claim victory. Yes, indeed, feels good. But I digress.
I have a special spot in my kitchen (my window sill above the sink) where I put any card I receive. I leave it there until the next one arrives. That way I can look at it, admire the design or picture, think about who sent it to me and just enjoy (I suppose this means I am spending way too much time doing dishes)! Thank-you cards fit particularly well on this ledge in my kitchen. Generally they are smaller and compact than other cards. Maybe it is something about the size that endears them to me, but I do have a sweet spot for thank-you cards.
Here is a fantastic thank-you card written to Canada in February 2010 by Brian Williams, the news anchor and managing editor for NBC nightly news. I love this note for a couple of reasons. First, it reads very sincerely and second, it is funny! However, I do find it a tad long (understandable since we Canadians are so nice). It would be hard to fit on one of those little cards we have been talking about wouldn’t it? Take a peek at this:
| Experts Recommend: | Ritewhileucan suggests: |
| Short and sweet is best. | But, hey, if you want to write an essay feel free. The point is you are thanking someone else – don’t get too caught up in your own life half through that essay. |
| Hand write the note. If you absolutely have no choice use an email or phone call, but to write the note says you took the time. | So, on this point I have to say I agree about the handwriting thing. If you can’t decipher your own hand writing print out the words “Thank you” and leave the rest to their imagination! |
| Make mention of why you are so thankful for the gift or whatever it is. | Yes, this too would be nice, but don’t let it hold you back. A straight up “Merci” will suffice. |
| Timeliness. Try to send out your thank-you card within 3 days of receiving the gift/service. | OK. Here we need a little dose of reality, don’t you think? Better late than never. And really who wouldn’t love to be surprised a year out when they receive your card. No, seriously, send it anyway. |
| Stationary “traditional” card is preferred. | This stifles the creativity just a tad don’t you agree? Perhaps take a risk and send a flower, or drop by a secret treat and leave it on the door with the words thank-you. Try to avoid a mass email – the point is to extend your gratitude. In a sincere and personal way. |
LOVE your suggestions & that they allow for one’s own creativity to be expressed in the stationary, the occasional tardiness in sending 🙂 and that it might be acceptable for the odd ‘essay’ for those that might have a few extra words to include!!!
Glad you liked the suggestions Gwen. I am all for making it unique. And I love getting the “essay” version! Thanks for reading.
I completely agree with you both!!! Not only that, but it reminds me of how important and special this is to do 🙂 Thank you!