It’s easy to forget to show ample appreciation to those closest to us. The people we interact with daily and share the minutia of our lives are the ones who most need to be sprinkled with gratitude. Our daughter did just that when she arrived home from school the other day. She gave my husband and me cards that read, “Thanks for being AWESOME in so many ways.” Each card included a personalized note of thanks. She handed them to us and bounded up the stairs as if this was something she did every day. The messages were just as meaningful as Emily’s spontaneity in giving them to us in the first place.
Imagine the positive impact if people were more forthcoming with their gratitude for one another more frequently. No grandiose acts are necessary. After all, the word is gratitude, not “granditude.” The magnitude of Emily’s gesture was in its meaning, not its size. Letting people know you appreciate them is a gift in itself. We often take one another for granted. Receiving reminders of appreciation can make a big difference in someone’s life. Despite knowing one is appreciated, it’s still nice to hear it.
Actions sometimes speak louder than words. Show or tell someone, “Thanks for being awesome.” See what happens when they unexpectedly receive the compliment. They won’t be the only ones smiling. Filling someone else’s bucket has a funny way of filling our own, too. Be creative and genuine in your expression of appreciation. Send a card, make a call. Set aside time to meet. Just being thought of makes the recipient grateful.
In Emily’s words, I say to you, “Thanks for being Awesome!” You’ve touched my life in more ways than you know. Thank you for your love and support.
With sincere gratitude, Christy
