Advice from Judith Martin, Nicholas Ivor Martin and Jacobina Martin.
: Lately, people have been saying to me, “It is not my story to tell” when I ask about the welfare of friends who might be having problems, or after I find out something devastating about a friend I care deeply about.
Do these people think those who are suffering should contact and notify every single person they know? It seems that their gratitude deserves a response, but “you’re welcome” feels awkward. Is that the appropriate response? Am I just overthinking this?Yes, you are. But as you are paying attention to the wording, rather than simply completing a rote exchange, you can vary your response. For example: “I was happy to be of assistance.”
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