“When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us.”
– Helen Keller
Expressing Gratitude: My Way and the Ways of Others
Gratitude is a powerful emotion, and I believe it’s important to find some way to express it, especially to the people we care about. We don’t hear as much positivity or appreciation these days as I think we should. For me, gratitude goes beyond words; it’s about action. I express my appreciation by doing things for the people I love. Whether it’s cooking their favorite meal, helping with a task, paying the parking toll on an experience or simply being there when they need someone to talk to, I find joy in these gestures. It’s my way of saying, “I see you, I appreciate you, and I’m thankful for you.”
But as I think about my approach, I’m curious about the many ways others choose to express their gratitude. Here are some ways people show appreciation:
- Words of Affirmation: Some people are natural wordsmiths, able to convey their gratitude through heartfelt notes, letters, or even a simple verbal “thank you.” They make sure the people they appreciate know it through their words.
- Gift-Giving: A thoughtful gift can be a tangible representation of gratitude. It doesn’t have to be extravagant—sometimes, it’s the small, meaningful gifts that speak the loudest.
- Acts of Service: Like me, many people express gratitude by doing things for others. This could be anything from helping with chores, running errands, or offering a helping hand when needed.
- Quality Time: Spending time with someone can be a profound way to show appreciation. In our busy lives, taking the time to be present with someone shows that we value and cherish them.
- Public Recognition: Some express gratitude by publicly acknowledging others, whether it’s through social media shoutouts, toasts at gatherings, or giving credit where it’s due in professional settings.
- Touch: For some, physical affection like hugs, pats on the back, or holding hands is a way to express their gratitude. It’s a warm, non-verbal way of saying, “I’m thankful for you.”
Everyone has their own unique way of showing gratitude, and each method is valid and meaningful in its own right. What’s important is that the appreciation is genuine and comes from the heart. How do you express gratitude? How do others in your life show it to you? Reflecting on this not only strengthens our connections but also deepens our understanding of what it means to be thankful.
