A story about a grandmother’s Christmas present rings true to me. Every year she’d give each grandchild a check but never received a single thank-you note or visit in return. She told some friends that last year every one of them came personally to thank her for her gift. What changed? She explains: “I sent them each a check as usual, but last year, I didn’t sign them!”
Isn’t it true for us, that too many important moments go unnoticed? Too many gifts come our way without evoking the delight that comes with gratitude. Take a little time to watch the powerful video below. If it does not draw out a sense of wonder for the gift of life, you may want to check your pulse….
Now what?
People: Pick one person For the next week, make your daily goodbyes and hellos count. Greet that person like you have been away for a while. Return to that person like a soldier coming home on furlough.
Events: Pick one small event Wash the dishes, walk the dog, or rake the leaves like a champ–as though a prize awaits your best effort. Make dinner like an Iron Chef, even if it’s just a soup n’ sandwich.
Circumstances: Choose a daily grind Whether it’s commuting or waiting in the car for someone, make a small but significant change to the way you do it. Listen to an audio book, make a call to someone you’ve not had time to reach out to, or just give your brain a rest.
Whatever you do, let gratitude drive you to take it up a notch. Then, watch it energize you for what’s next.
Leave a Reply