UPDATE: Miss Manners has sparked an urgent debate on the etiquette of thank-you cards, questioning their necessity in the gift-giving process. As the holiday season approaches, her insights are prompting many to reconsider long-held traditions.
In a recent column, she addressed a reader’s concern about the perceived obligation to send thank-you notes, asserting that gifts should be given freely and without expectation. “Gifts, to me, are not a chore and not an obligation,” the reader expressed, emphasizing that the joy of giving should be the primary focus.
Miss Manners responded by highlighting the importance of feedback in the giving process. “Don’t you want to know that your present was a success?” she asked, underlining the emotional connection between giver and recipient. This perspective is resonating with those who feel burdened by the thank-you card tradition.
As people engage in holiday shopping, the conversation is intensifying. Many are questioning the emotional weight of thank-you cards, viewing them as a “brutal and draconian” requirement rather than a simple expression of gratitude.
Miss Manners encourages a shift in perspective, suggesting that the actual act of giving should suffice. She urges givers to focus on the joy of their thoughtful gestures rather than the expectation of written acknowledgments.
In another topic, Miss Manners addressed common etiquette questions, including the timing for sending thank-you notes after events like weddings or baby showers. Her straightforward answer? There is no time interval—notes should be sent as soon as possible after receiving a gift.
As discussions around etiquette evolve, Miss Manners’ insights serve as a timely reminder to embrace the spirit of giving. With the holiday season fast approaching, her advice encourages generosity devoid of obligation, making gift-giving a more heartfelt experience.
This ongoing discourse invites readers to reflect on their own practices and potentially share these evolving views on social media. What do you think? Are thank-you cards essential, or can the act of giving stand alone?
To contribute to the conversation, send your questions to Miss Manners via her website, www.missmanners.com, or by email at [email protected].
