01-14-2010, 12:27 AM

This year, my aunt and uncle sent me a check for Christmas, along with a note. The note said that they was sorry the check couldn't be more, and that with the economy being so bad they are just squeaking by.

Now I know this is partially true, and I'm not scoffing at her gift at all. So don't get me wrong. My question is, how would you word a thank-you that genuinely expresses your gratitude for the gift, as well as their sacrifice? I don't want to give some smarmy thank-you, because I really am grateful.

01-14-2010, 12:32 AM

Well if it was me i would go over there in person (if their close enough) and hand them the check back saying Thank you very much but i dont need the money and it would go to better use if you kept it ..???
IMO anyways, that is what i would do

Lovely Aunt to give you the check in such dire times

Cheers

01-14-2010, 08:02 AM

If it was me i'd take a picture of me doing/using/holding whatever it is that the extra money helped me to buy (even indirectly, sometimes a little extra money means you can do something simple like pay a bill without worrying). Then send the picture, to show that the money (no matter what size) was really helpful.

But then i'm a bit odd and get over enthusiastic sometimes!

01-14-2010, 08:43 AM

If you can, thank them in person. If not, write them a long note about how much you appreciate their thoughtfulness in such tough economic times. I would hand write it because it seems more thoughtful to me. You can write about how much that extra money will help you out. Lastly, mention how you completely understand the rough economy and realize that many are struggling in these times. Good luck!

01-14-2010, 08:48 AM

Mis-post...please delete.

01-14-2010, 08:54 AM

I wouldn't give it back. They wanted to give you something. The photo idea is great!

Just write a nice note in a humble "voice". It's the thought that counts, not the eloquence. Share the note with a friend before you send it if you're worried that it's sappy or could somehow be misinterpreted.

01-14-2010, 05:16 PM

I agree that you shouldn't give it back. If they really needed the money, they would have kept it. Obviously, it meant more to them to give you something (regardless of how "insignificant" it might have been) which speaks volumes about how much you mean to them. Accept it gracefully. If you return it, you'll look ungrateful and inconsiderate of the idea that they wanted to give you something. Think about it this way: If you had very little, spent what you could to give them something and they returned it. How would you feel? Regardless of the circumstance (in this case, trying to justify it as being kind) it still seems insincere. If you really want to feel better about it, use the money for something that has meaning or can be useful. Don't spend it on something superficial or flashy. Use it for something that will be beneficial for your well being so that those who gave it to you can feel good about trying to help.

I don't agree that the picture is a good idea though. A simple note expressing your appreciation should suffice. Anything too "fancy" will seem artificial.