Thoughts and not prayers.

[Fireball]

It's really not the idea of "thoughts and prayers" that's galling. It's the recitation of the phrase in lieu of the things you can actually do to help.

It's become particularly tiresome in America as the token response to the massive amount of gun violence. There are things conservatives can do that will be a lot more effective and helpful to victims than thoughts and prayers. How about vote to end the ban on researching the causes and predictive factors of gun violence in America? How about common sense gun laws that close loopholes wherein people who wouldn't otherwise be able to purchase a gun can?

This is why the phrase has become a lightning rod for derision. Social context matters. The phrase is tainted by the way it is used in a widespread sociopolitical context. It's not that every time someone says "thoughts and prayers" it's white hot liberal rage. I recently lost my beloved pupper, Tanner, and many of my religious friends and family members told me they were praying for me. I know what they mean---and there is nothing they can do, so let them have at it.

Sorry about the loss of your canine buddy! That's always painful.