I just started working at a new office in my organization (literally one week). I've met everyone at least once. The mother of one of the coworkers (whom I've met once, but will be working with in the future) just died. Our supervisor sent a mass email to everyone in the office informing us of the time/date of the viewing. It is tonight. I'm wondering, since I just started the job, barely know my coworker, and did not know the deceased at all, do I need to attend the wake?
2007-01-10 09:45:08 · 5 answers · asked by Office Mate 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
If I were you, I wouldn't go. It would seem awkward to me if I were the daughter/son of the deceased to have someone that I did not know well attend. My mom just passed this last year, so I know how strange I would have felt if someone who didn't know me OR my mom showed up.
A wake is really to pay one's respects to the dearly departed and support to those who remain. Since you don't really KNOW that person (the coworker) it would be uncomfortable for you both.
A simple "sympathy" card would be appropriate, however. If not that, at least a verbal "I am sorry to hear about your loss" when the person returns from bereavement.
Good luck with your decision.
2007-01-10 11:12:55 · answer #1 · answered by Avon Lady 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you want to show support for your coworker, go to the viewing. If you don't, don't. I think it would be nice to go, and viewings don't usually take very long.
2007-01-10 10:23:50 · answer #2 · answered by drshorty 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I wouldn't go since they're practically strangers, but I would send flowers and/or a card. That way she knows you at least acknowledged her loss.
2007-01-10 10:29:46 · answer #3 · answered by chnchita 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You don't need to, but it would be a nice gesture. I had a lot of people I know die last year & I didn't go to one, which I probably should have.
2007-01-10 10:16:32 · answer #4 · answered by shermynewstart 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Absolutely NOT... No need for you to go.
I actually do not attend any... I find them completely stupid. The frame of mind : "Someone died, OK now lets eat" just doesn't sit well with me so I just simply do not attend them. If anyone has a problem with it, they are the ones who has to get over it NOT me.
2007-01-10 10:35:41 · answer #5 · answered by Kitty 6 · 0⤊ 2⤋