Vivid in my mind is the memory of my bridal shower. I remember feeling loved, and slightly overwhelmed, surrounded by family and friends, and piles and piles of toasters, crockpots, picture frames, and books with advice on marriage. I remember my mom sitting next to me while I opened gifts, faithfully writing down, in meticulous detail, everything about each gift: "Floral print bath towels, Aunt Hortencia, left-handed, olive green, oven mitt, Cousin Mildred." (I'm taking some artistic liberties with names and gifts to make things more interesting).
I remember thinking that my mom's faithful record of the gifts, so that I could send out dozens of "Thank You" cards, was a bit excessive and unnecessary. I was, after all, offering a heartfelt thank you, in person, after each gift I opened.
I remember the list of names. I remember my mom's gentle yet persistent reminders to send out the "Thank You" cards. I remember putting off this task. And, I'm ashamed to say, I remember my mom finally taking over, and sending out the cards herself.
Nineteen years later, I am ready to mend my ways, make my mom proud, and show my gratitude for people I love, by writing a few well-deserved, and long overdue "Thank You", cards.
I sat down this morning, with my pen in hand, and wrote a sincere note of thanks to the first five people that came to mind. It was easier than I thought it would be! As soon as I thought of a specific person, it wasn't hard to recall many reasons to be thankful for them in my life. I'm pretty sure that I could repeat this exercise every day for the rest of my life, and never struggle to think of five more people who deserve my thanks.
Sharing my gratitude felt great! I might even start making detailed lists! I will, absolutely, do my best to remember that five minutes and a stamp is a pretty easy and effective way to show thanks.
Today's a new day, let's make it purposeful!
Kara
Awesome idea!
ReplyDeleteAwesome idea!
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