Comment by hombre_fatal

Yeah, I used to have a similar drive as OP where I thought some sort of grand gesture was in order towards various people in my life. And I can't think of a single time it particularly paid off.

It's not like they go "ah yes, just what I deserve!"

If anything, it puts them in a confusing or uncomfortable position.

I get it now. But if you have people to thank, call them and make it short and sweet. But don't do the big gesture.