DEAR ABBY: After years of soul-searching I have finally realized that I'm an atheist. I am happy with that realization and at peace with myself.
One minor thing, though, has been baffling me. When expressing compassion, usually in letters or other written form, I see the phrase, "My thoughts and prayers are with you." I like the phrase, but cannot in good conscience state an outright lie when I know I won't pray.
Can you think of any non-religious alternative that I can use? I feel that using "My thoughts are with you" alone is missing something. -- JILL IN MICHIGAN
DEAR JILL: I disagree. The phrase "My thoughts are with you" is direct and sincere. If you think you must add more, describe the emotions you are feeling, i.e., "I miss you," "I hope you're feeling better soon" or, "Please know you're always in my heart." In other words, tailor your words to the occasion and the person to whom they are directed.