Have I said, “Thank you”?

I have never been great at sending out “Thank you” cards. For our wedding, I got to a point, after, that I just gave up trying to complete them. I DO think I got them all out before Grove was born, though! I was so excited I may have even high-fived myself. However, there are several instances and events that I have had a few people get upset over not hearing back from us. I even lost an aunt over it. No joke. I don’t mean she died from anger, she just kind of wrote us off.  In my eyes, that is ridiculous. This may be shallow of me to say from the receiving side of it, but if you are counting on a “thank you” or recognition, are you really GIVING for the right reason? I try and tell people in cards or with gifts that a “thank you” card is not necessary. It was meant to be a gift and not something to add to your “to-do” list. I know there are people out there who are on top of these types of things and can get the thank-you cards out like it is no big deal. I guess it shouldn’t be, sorry. But I admire you, who ever you are (I actually know a few) and that is such a great skill and gift that you were given, to be that organized. I am just blessed with gifts in other things and if you are upset about that, take it up with my creator.

I am aware that in our parents’ generation, a “thank you” was expected and is obviously something that is held rather high on their lists of importance. Don’t get me wrong. I say the words “thank you” as much as I can. It is just the CARDS that prove to be a stumbling block for me. I try to send a quick note of thanks to someone- text, message, email… MY VOICE! but sometimes that is not enough.

I know that most of you realize the life we are struggling with and how, no offense, the “thank you” cards are not on our list of big concerns at the moment. It breaks my heart to not personally write each of you, that did not remain anonymous, to thank you, sincerely, from all three of us.  It honestly weighs heavy on my heart. Because no matter what you did for us, prayed, made food, donated, fundraised, watched Grove, helped with errands, … etc. we are SO grateful. I honestly would have had several breakdowns, most likely ending up in the hospital, if it wasn’t for those of you reaching out to us. I still intend on writing some thank you notes, just I am not sure when that will actually happen.

Our one friend, I asked her if she’d be willing to help me write some. She said “honestly, in your situation… I don’t think it is really expected by people. They know you are juggling a lot.” However, there is no way to be sure of that.

I did write this “Thank you” note that was handed out at some fundraisers to everyone involved. Since we still mean each word, I’d like to post it on here.

Dear Cherished Family and Friends,
We write to you with such grateful hearts. Thank you for coming alongside of us during this very hard time. From words of encouragement, hope, peace and prayer, you have continued to keep us focused on what matters and ready for what is yet to come. Your generosity of time, resources, finances, wisdom and friendship has truly given us the boost we need when everything seems to be a bit too much. We have faced some difficulties the past few years and even though this is a TERRIBLE situation to be in, we see it as a way that God is providing for our every need.
[Then there was about three paragraphs explaining all that was happening with Tim, from the first signs to his current struggles.]
Many friends, family and even strangers have reached out to us in every way possible and we do not feel alone. We know that this time in our lives would prove to be an impossible feat if we did not have the faith and trust in God, which we rely on for everything. He is the joy that we still cling to. Your support in this time does NOT, in ANY way, go unappreciated. Please understand that we would love to personal thank you all and hope that we find the time.
We want to sincerely thank you, again, for your kindness and generous heart. We pray that your concern and care will be returned to you when you need it most.
-The Dobos Family (Tim, Robyn, and Grove)
and the Dobos and Simmons families.

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Feedback and comments are welcomed because I really want to hear opinions on this topic. THANKS <— hehe