Sorry for Your Loss

Seriously? A pie from each one?

Recently a friend of mine posted the obituary of her 85-year-old uncle on Facebook. Naturally she felt sad about his death. Following her post were a string of comments, all saying the same exact thing: "Sorry for your loss."

Okay, to be fair, some people said something different. For example:"So sorry for your loss, Sorry for your loss of your uncle, So sorry to hear of your loss, Sorry you have had such a loss, So sorry about your loss, Sorry you are feeling bad over your loss," and more like that. Really it went on ad nauseum.

Come on people -- wake up and smell your brain cells!

First of all, how much of a "loss" was her 85-year-old uncle? Sure she loved the guy, but she's got a husband and kids and a job and a very full life. And he was no spring chicken and everyone dies eventually, as we know. How about saying, "Sorry to hear of your uncle's passing. I'm sure he will live on in your memory." Or maybe, "My condolences to you as you mourn the loss of your dear family member, may he rest in peace." Or maybe, "Hope you feel better soon, may he be in a better place." Or, in fact, just about any damn thing except, "Sorry for your loss" after seeing that 47 other people already said that.