"Character is the one thing we make in this world and take with us into the next."
- - Ezra Taft Benson
September 6, 2012
A Tardy Thank You
by Cyndie Swindlehurst


Question:

What do you do when you've totally missed the appropriate time frame in which to send a thank you note to someone who helped you out?

Answer:

You sit down and write the thank you note. No rational person will turn up a nose at a sincere thank you note, no matter how tardy.

When you write your note, do not start with “Thank you for . . .” and do not gush about being embarrassed at your tardy note. Gushing will put the focus on you instead of on the person you wish to thank.

Instead, give a reason that you are thinking about whatever it was the person did for you. Then, focus on what you remember and appreciate now about the service that was rendered then. The note does not need to be long.

For example:

“Dear Sister Carlson,

“This morning, when I was thinking about what to make for dinner tonight, I remembered the chicken casserole you brought me when Allison was born. It was so long ago! But it was delicious, and I was so grateful for your help. I appreciate your friendship.”

Or try this:

“Dear Bonnie,

“As I was sorting through some photos this afternoon, I found pictures of the PTA fundraiser we organized last fall. You were such a supportive team member, and the publicity campaign you put together was terrific. I want you to know how much I appreciate all of your efforts on the committee.”

Or perhaps:

“Dear Aunt Samantha,

“As I was putting out fresh towels yesterday, I remembered that they were a wedding gift from you. We celebrated our third anniversary last month, and I want you to know that we have used those towels every day! They have been wonderful, and I am so happy to have an aunt like you.

Love,
Clarisse”

Do you have a quandary, conundrum, or sticky situation in your life? Click this button to drop Cyndie a line, and she’ll be happy to answer your question in a future column. Any topic is welcome!


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About Cyndie Swindlehurst

Cynthia Munk Swindlehurst spent her childhood in New Hampshire and her adolescence in San Diego. She served a mission in Manaus Brazil. She graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in English and from Duke University with a law degree.

She practiced law until her first child was born. She enjoys reading, tap dancing, and discussing current events. She and her husband live in Greensboro, North Carolina with their two sons.

Cyndie serves as the Sunbeams teacher in her ward.

Visit Cyndie at Dear Cyndie
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