If straight talk doesn’t work, be bold. The next gift could come with a box of thank-you cards. Or send this column to someone who may forget or doesn’t know a note of gratitude is appreciated.

Is it truly necessary to write a thank-you note for a thank-you gift? It feels a bit circular. I can’t imagine not writing the notes, but I feel compelled to ask: Would a simpler acknowledgment ...

Is it truly necessary to write a thank-you note for a thank-you gift? It feels a bit circular. I can’t imagine not writing the notes, but I feel compelled to ask: Would a simpler acknowledgment ...

Is it truly necessary to write a thank-you note for a thank-you gift? It feels a bit circular. I can’t imagine not writing the notes, but I feel compelled to ask: Would a simpler acknowledgment ...

Is it truly necessary to write a thank-you note for a thank-you gift? It feels a bit circular. I can’t imagine not writing the notes, but I feel compelled to ask: Would a simpler acknowledgment ...

My friend’s executor is the eldest of her three children. Should I write a thank-you note for this bequest, and if so, to whom should it be addressed? Obviously I can’t write to my deceased ...

Is it truly necessary to write a thank-you note for a thank-you gift? It feels a bit circular. I can’t imagine not writing the notes, but I feel compelled to ask: Would a simpler acknowledgment ...