It’s never too late to say “Thank you!”

It’s never too late to say “Thank you!”

After going through a rough patch in my life I remember getting a LinkedIn message from out of the blue from a guy who worked at my graduate school. He wanted me to know that some actions I had taken on his behalf 15 years ago had really helped him through a tough time and he wanted to thank me. To say the least, I was stunned. First because I’d forgotten all about it, secondly because I thought that was so sweet that he reached out to me 15 years later, and thirdly because I was getting the feedback that I what I had done mattered. It was a really beautiful gift on so many levels.

This week I began thinking about the people who made a difference in my life.  For example, two and a half years ago I need help moving and several wonderful people took time to help me load boxes into the U-Haul and carry heavy furniture, nothing fun about that. I was so grateful for their help. In fact, I still feel grateful that they gave of their time and came to my rescue.  I decided to send them all notes of gratitude. I wanted them to know how much their generosity was appreciated.

It’s never too late to say “thank you.” There is no such thing as being too appreciative or too grateful.

Today as you reflect on your life and all that you are grateful, consider making a list of the people who you are grateful for, the people who have made a positive difference in your life be it the barista who remembers your name, the neighbors who pick up your mail when you are away from home, your friends who cheer you on, your co-workers who agree to switch shifts or lock up late so you can go on that date or get home early to be with your family. Today remember the people who have blessed your life in big and small ways and if possible, tell them, share your appreciation. You can send them a card or just a quick e-mail or text. Not only with this make their day, it will make yours.  Remember “It is not happy people who are thankful. It is thankful people who are happy.”

Onward and Upward in Gratitude