I do.
And I am always somewhat amazed by it. Why is showing gratitude difficult? Honestly,I don't get it . . .
I am a gift giver. I don't do it to show off . . . . I don't do it out of guilt or obligation. . . . I honestly LOVE finding gifts for people. It brings me pleasure. I don't want a gift back. I don't want gushing. But an honest, wow, thanks . . . that's appreciated. The best part is the smile on the person's face, but the thank you is nice too.
Every month, I send off between three and ten packages to people I care about. Some are family, some are correspondents, some are friends who have moved away. I love filling up the boxes over a period of weeks and then sending them off.
But recently I have run into a few people who simply do not know how to demonstrate gratitude. (Whether or not they FEEL it, I don't know.) One person's ingratitude ended our year long correspondence (he not only didn't say thanks, he yelled at me for sending anything and returned it unopened) and another hurt my feelings last night. I had found something when I was out of town that I knew he'd like and brought it to him. Handed it to him. He looked at it, chuckled, put it in his pocket and never even LOOKED at me. No thank you. No acknowledgement whatsoever. In my book, that's just RUDE.
So you know what, I want to take this chance to say THANK YOU to all of the wonderful people in my life who have shared their love, time and life with me. That is the best gift of all and I thank you. Yes, I am exceedingly grateful--and not afraid to show it either.
4 comments:
I was just thinking on this sort of thing, in relation to parenting. I always strive to teach by example, so my kid learns good manners by *seeing* good manners. I sometimes prompt her, but rarely need to, and it's usually because she's shy anyway. I have little patience for rudeness. Even if someone gave me something I didn't particularly like, I would still be thankful for their thoughtfulness and would say so.
And thanks to YOU!
Thank you, Thank you, thank you!!!
:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D
Tami, your genersoity made some really tough times in my life seem so much easier. Thank YOU for being the kind person you are!
Totally agree with what Delaine said---can't believe anyone would not appreciate your kindness and generosity!
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