With thanksgiving around the corner,the word thanks is swirling in the air.
Thanks, thanks, thanks, a word caught up in the gusts of the autumn winds like colored leaves and cranberry sauce recipes. Thank you.
A simple two words that maybe we don’t say enough. A simple two words that is always a welcome gesture. A gesture that is as good for the person giving it as receiving. There are very few things in the world with that power.
We all have highs & we all have lows. We seem to think it’s only appropriate to say thanks when things are riding high. I have learned that’s not always the case. I was once passed down some sage advice by a very classy woman: if you find yourself feeling kinda low, kind of hating on stuff & wishing it were different, that is the perfect time to say thanks. Think of all the people that have done something, whether intentional or no, that made a difference, big or small. And set aside the time to sit down to write a few thanks you notes.
There is really no time limit on thanks. You can say it years later, if you must. I mean, sooner is often the best idea, especially with things like gifts and good interviews. Though there are certain things that take a little longer to sink in and if its made you feel thankful, let someone know, don’t keep it to yourself. It means that you were paying attention. It means that you care, it means you remember. It also means you can have a moment to reflect on what is truly good & beneficial in this world.
I need to clarify that I don’t necessarily mean just the sort of thanks that you say when you are asked. You know before digging into the turkey and gravy when someone invariably asks everyone to say what they are thankful of that year. That, actually, just always really makes me uncomfortable. I don’t know why. It just feels weird.
The same kind of weird that campfire songs make me feel. I mean, I’ve been around for a while, and yeah, still can’t do the campfire songs. What I mean is sincere thanks. Like for good friends, a shoulder offered, an unexpected gesture, the love of family & dedication. Thanks for supporting me and believing in the value of what I have to offer, even when sometimes, I am not so sure of it myself.
As with all things worthwhile, I also believe that thanks can be personalized, stamped, sealed & delivered. Email is great for a lot of things, but how much do we all love to receive a piece of mail? Especially one decorated just for you. I encourage you to remember all those little things you are thankful for. Fill the air with gratitude. We could all use it. When was the last time you reached out to say thank you? When was the last time you got that warm, full up feeling from someone taking the time thank you?
