If people say "Condolence"_ what should be your answer?
By kyss_smyle
@kyss_smyle (166)
Philippines
October 9, 2010 8:42am CST
This confused me a lot. After my father's death, the people I meet everyday say their "condolences"... Everytime someone tells me that, I felt that I should answer... but what is the answer?
It does not feel okay to say "Thank you" I mean, it sounds like you are thankful that your father died, right?
Just like "Thank you" should be answered with "You're welcome" or "Happy Birthday" should be answered with, "Thank you" _ then what should be the answer of the "Condolence"????
1 person likes this
3 responses
@Christinelle (396)
• Greece
9 Oct 10
That's a good question. In my native language we usually respond with "thank you" and "be well". It's accepted and popular since "thank you" is in the sense "thank you for thinking about me and sharing my grief". "Be well" is supposed to be a happier way to end the conversation. In English though, "thank you" doesn't really sound right but it's still the first option that comes to mind. I am curious to see what other people would say.
@kyss_smyle (166)
• Philippines
12 Oct 10
Thank you for your answer. I guess the answer "Thank you" is not bad at all.
@jaiho2009 (39142)
• Philippines
15 Oct 10
Saying "thank you "is still appropriate,becoz we are referring to the person who shares empathy towards us.
Or,you can simply smile or nod your head.
People who says their condolences doesn't bother to hear replies,they know and understand your feeling,so nothing to worry about.
That is why,i noticed that some people send "thank you" card to people who signed on the guests book.
Have a great weekend ahead 
