It is peculiar to think that a mass stamped expression -- “Sympathy,” or in the case of letters of thanks, “Thank you” -- is better than the personal, handwritten word.

Advice; Miss Manners: I offended a friend when I didn’t send her a thank-you note for attending my husband’s wake. Published: ; Feb. 18, 2025, 6:00 a.m.

Dear Wondering: Sending a thank you note to someone who has sent a sympathy card is truly next-level loveliness, and I admire any grieving person who manages to do it.