Member-only story

“Our Thoughts and Prayers Are with You” Means Nothing to Those Suffering in War-Torn Countries

It’s an empty sentiment when it isn’t followed by action

George J. Ziogas
6 min readJul 18, 2022
Valua Vitaly / Adobe Stock

You’re in our thoughts and prayers!

Sending thoughts and prayers!

We’ll hold you in our prayers.

Sending all of my positive thoughts your way.

We’re lifting you up in prayer.

There’s nothing inherently wrong with thoughts and prayers, the problem is it’s an empty sentiment when it isn’t followed by action.

Just about every American has been hit with thoughts and prayers after something terrible has happened. It’s a quick, easy way to acknowledge that someone is going through a difficult time, and it’s a seemingly effective way to communicate compassion and/or concern. It tells someone you care about that you’re thinking about them, that you’re with them in spirit. A kind of promise that you’re sending positive energy.

I don’t buy it.

The Emptiest Phrase in the English Language

It’s an empty phrase now that politicians have used it ad nauseam — they’ve used it for the families and communities after school shooting after school shooting…

--

--

George J. Ziogas
George J. Ziogas

Written by George J. Ziogas

Editor | Vocational Teacher | HR Consultant | Manners will take you where money won't | ziogasjgeorge@gmail.com

Responses (17)