be gracious. be loved.

There are certain things that sicken me about the human race.  Materialism.  Envy.  Girls in flip flops.  One thing in particular though is as shitty as it is surprising; the lack of gratitude in the world.  When someone does something for you, they’re usually making a sacrifice of some kind.  Human nature is inherently selfish.  Giving up something for someone else is a huge act that deserves to be properly rewarded.  With what?  Gratitude.  Sincere, heartfelt gratitude.  A simple, singular ‘thank you’ isn’t nearly enough.

I’ve been called a lot of things in my day; pervert (duh), weirdo (usually), charlatan (as if).  One name you’ll never hear used to describe me?  “Ingrate”.  Why?  I make damn sure people know how much I appreciate them.  Whenever possible?  I try to return the favor, act of kindness or gift.  Being dirt poor,  this isn’t always easy.  What is easy, and as important if not more so than reciprocation?

I thank them.

Then?

I thank them again.

Then?

Days, months, even years later, I thank them once more.  I want them to know how much their kindness means.  Why I appreciate it.  How it’s helped or changed me.

A trio of thank you’s should be considered the bare minimum.  They should be spread out over a period of time, so that the thank-ee (them) and thank-er (you) are both reminded of the act and the way it’s benefited you.

A proper thank you should be specific, citing not only your gratitude, but why it was important to you.  If it was something you couldn’t have done for yourself?  Let them know how lucky you are to know someone who could, and did.

Making people feel truly appreciated is not only the right thing to do, it’s also the best way to open the door to future favors.

No one likes the feeling of being taken advantage of, or having their efforts going unnoticed.

If you care about the people in your life?

Thank them often enough to make sure they don’t.