I just traveled out of the country because my grandpa died. He was like my father because i was raised by him. When people ask me where i have been and i respond a Nicaragua they assume i was on vacation. When i tell them the reason they either give me a condolence or change the subject. My question is how do I respond? i usually say thanks but it really doesnt make sense to say thanks or its ok because its really not ok.
2007-02-20 07:47:06 · 13 answers · asked by Lovely 4 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
There really isn't a right or wrong way and we all find death an awkward subject to talk about. If you feel like it why don't you respond by simply saying " thank you I was very close to him he was like a father to me" most people will probably engage with you in a little more conversation - you should feel that you are able to celebrate your grandfathers life and his memories and often people will share there's with you and ut makes the situation less awkward. It will do you good to talk about him fondly in this way to, he may have passed away but he is still alive in your memories so celebrate him! My neighbours husband died recently and I invite her talk about the funny stories and good memoried - befor eyou know it she's smiling again.
2007-02-20 07:58:39 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
When I have been in that situation, I usually have responded with "Thank you for your kind words", or "I appreciate your concern". There is no reason to be lengthy with your response. Most people don't really expect for you to say much at all.
If someone changes the subject, they may just not know what to say.
I am sorry for your loss. take care.
2007-02-20 07:55:56 · answer #2 · answered by ga_morton 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just tell them that their condolences are really appreciated,and look them in the eyes when you say it.They are feeling uncomfortable and need to know that you appreciate them saying it.You can tell that in time you will be fine, that is the truth....Condolences, I know how you feel.
2007-02-20 11:10:13 · answer #3 · answered by Maw-Maw 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You're thanking them for their considerate condolence and a "thank you" in response is fine. So sorry about your loss, bless your heart.
2007-02-20 07:55:46 · answer #4 · answered by leslie 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
People offer Condolences because they don't know what else to say either. You saying thanks would be the right response.
Death is always an awkward subject...
2007-02-20 07:53:05 · answer #5 · answered by nalla 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
"Thank you," is appropriate, in that the person offering the condolences is in essence offering to share the pain of your loss with you. So, you thank that person for his or her kind thoughts toward you.
2007-02-20 07:53:17 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Thank you is usually sufficient. The reason you say thank you is because you are acknowledging their response. When you are saying thanks or thank you, there is nothing wrong with that. My deepest sympathies go out to you and your family on your loss.
2007-02-20 08:22:27 · answer #7 · answered by Important 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Thank you is a nice response. You're saying thank you for your kind thoughts. That's all you need to say; and no one is expecting you to say "it's OK," because they know it's not.
2007-02-20 07:55:50 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I'd thank them. In their way they are acknowledging your pain and his life. All of us have lost someone dear to us and while it's sad, it's good to have people around to love and care for us.
2007-02-20 09:34:54 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Thank you is an appropriate answer. You thank them for expressing sympathy for your loss.
2007-02-20 07:58:25 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋