So there is a condolence card in the break room for one of my coworkers who’s dad just died. It has a bible verse on the front and may God give you peace stuff inside. I don’t really want to put my name on it. Would you?
Don't worry, you'll mellow with time, and experience being so touchy about things. In the meantime just do whatever feels right, and try to not place so much importance on how you think some might see you.
that was good advice.
Yes. Be nice. It sucks losing a dad. I am an atheist, my dad was Chatholic. I delivered his eulogy in a Chatholic church.
Your co-worker is hurt. It doesn't matter if they follow theological beliefs or not. Your human and so are they. This isn't about you or your beliefs. It is about showing you care to a person who is grieving. It is being part of a society, when you are most needed to be.
I wouldn't want to but only because I have weird handwriting and I'm paranoid about my signature and what to write. It always looks shitty next to all the cute girly ones. I probably would still do it though.
Someone's condolence card is not the place to express your religious opinion. Also I think buying a separate card signed only by you would be weird and kindof a jerk move unless you are a close friend of the specific coworker. It's not about you. It's just a card from coworkers as a group to express sympathy.
If you are really opposed to signing it dont. They probably won't notice anyway depending on how many signatures there are. Just tell them when you see them that you were sorry to hear about there loss.
I would, and have.
I certainly don't make any comments about God, or an afterlife. But I will say something to the tune of," I'm sorry for your loss, and I hope you are holding up OK". or something like that.
In the end, I think the comments are really for the grieving one, so any kind of support I'm sure would feel nice when they read it.
It's not too hard to say something nice, and not have to mention any of the religious crap.
It is just a text word you are not giving anything away if you sign it. It is just recognizing that you share grief for the guy basically validating emotions. If it were someone I cared about I would sign it not because I acknowledge a deity, I care for my friend who is grieving.
Having officiated at several funerals, funerals are for the living not the dead. It depends on how well you know the coworker if not well, sign the card, if well and they are religious, sign the card, if well and they are not religious, send your own card.
Displaying concern is not a statement of support for stupidity.
I would just express my condolences and leave the religiulous prattle out!
I hate cards, esp sympathy cards. why not just speak to the person.
This may be the best suggestion on the whole thread. Personal communication vs impersonal card signing
@ChicagoMike I feel like cards are more to check off the I care box. It is harder but more rea l to call, of meet with person and have a conversation. I have noticed often people are uncomfortable with others loss. Everyone signs a card and when they return to.work , it is like it never happened for most. Not that the card isnt a nice gesture, but not sure it adds value.
Nope. I go to the dollar store and get a nice secular one.
No because these types of cards are often sent by well meaning fools to people who may not even share their beliefs. I would go directly to my coworker and let them know if they need anything even just to talk I am available. Religious condolence cards are just another form of Snots and Bears...