Incredibly Timely...

I hate that I have often sent a gift to someone for a wedding, birthday or other event and have never received any response at all too it. I suppose that Ms. Manners would take issue if I printed a copy of this article and attached it with every gift card, huh? Thank you Mary Hunt for this great article.

How and Why to Write a Thank-You Note
In these high-tech times when text-messaging and email are the preferred method of written communication, it might not have even crossed your mind to ask this important question: Do I have to send an old-fashioned thank-you note when someone gives me a gift? In a word, yes.

It’s right, it’s proper and it’s good for you.

It is not difficult, nor should it be time consuming to write a simple, heartfelt note of thanks in response to a gift or other act of kindness.

Here are the elements of a well-written thank-you note:
GREETING. Keep it simple. “Dear Aunt Mary…” works well.

EXPRESS GRATITUDE. State your thanks and identify the specific gift: “Thank you so much for the video game. It’s a perfect addition to my Wii collection, and I appreciate it so much.” Or “Thank you for the sweater, which is the exact color I would have chosen.”

The only exception to the specific reference is if the gift was money. In that case do not say, “Thank you for the $100.” Say simply, “Thank you for the generous gift which is greatly appreciated.” However, in the event Aunt Mary actually took the time to create a clever presentation, it would be perfectly acceptable to say, “Your generosity is exceeded only by your clever ability to fold money into a beautiful swan.”

DISCUSS USE. A simple sentence that indicates how you will use the gift comes next. “I know I will get plenty of use from this sweater during my semester abroad in Antarctica.” Or, “It is my all-time favorite game so you can be sure that I will think of you often.” Or, “It will be spent well to help furnish the baby’s room.”

MENTION THE PAST, REFER TO THE FUTURE. Possibly the most important part of your message is reference to how this person fits into your life. Something like, “I remember fondly snow tubing with you on the hill behind the farm and I look forward to seeing you soon.” Or “You are in my thoughts and I hope to see you soon.”

REVISIT GRATITUDE. As you close your note, state again your gratitude. “Thanks again for your gift” is an appropriate way to close your note.

REGARDS. Wrap things up with a gentle close and your name. “Fondly, Joe” or “Love, Laura” are excellent choices.

There. Seal it up and get it into the mail. Even if you are the only person you know sending thank-you notes, don’t let that deter you. You’ve demonstrated gracious living at a time when most are too busy to be bothered.

As an added bonus—but certainly not offered as an incentive to do the right thing—thank-you notes have been known to encourage repeat performances, as well as improve the frequency and quality of future gifts.