APPRECIATION
They’re two of the most hard-working individuals I’ve ever known, and they are committed to doing each and every job with excellence. Their work leaves them exhausted, but their clients love what they do, so they’re frequently referred to others. They commonly go above and beyond for their clients, often doing more than they’ve been requested to do. When asked why, they state, “We just wanted to bless them.” More often than not, this generosity results in a “catch-22.” They believe God leads them to bless others, so they are motivated to do more than is required. However, when they follow through, rarely do these clients express appreciation, leading to feelings of resentment and anger. Unfortunately, it seems gratitude is the exception rather than the rule, and these two workers are hurt and offended by these repeated omissions.
Coincidentally, a dear friend of mine told me recently that in her position at work, she is privy to all the gifts – monetary and otherwise – that certain coworkers receive in appreciation for their service. She recounted that almost every worker had received some gift over the past year, except for herself. In fact, it is unusual that she is shown any appreciation, even a simple “Thank You” – and her position covers two vital functions that keep her employer’s wheels turning.
Bridge
What has happened in today’s culture that the phrase “Thank You” has lost its importance? When said, it is rarely meant because it is said out of habit. Moreover, it does seem that “Thank You” falls into the category of benign, mundane, over-used phrases like “Excuse Me.” No one really acts differently when these phrases are spoken, but when they’re not uttered, the sound is deafening, and such an omission can lead to others’ thinking we’re rude, arrogant, entitled…
I’m surprised at how often I make a purchase, and rather than the cashier thanking me for shopping at their employer’s place of business (and my purchase does contribute somewhat to the cashier’s livelihood), I am departing the establishment after having thanked them.
Frequently I hear about children who seemingly haven’t been taught to say thank you — or write thank you notes — for gifts they receive for birthdays, Christmas, high school graduation, etc. If parents don’t teach them these courtesies, who will? Will these children grow into thankless adults who are never satisfied, take everything for granted, and expect bigger and better all the time?
Blesson
The saddest misuse of appreciation is when we say, “Thank God!” ”The glass didn’t shatter…Thank God!” “The car started this morning…Thank God!” “He didn’t see me do that…Thank God!” “There’s still some milk left…Thank God!” Etc. Etc. Etc. Really? Are we sincerely thanking God in these instances…or are we just tacking on a phrase that means little more in its expression than a casual ”Have a nice day.”
Perhaps we live in an era of expectation. Quid Pro Quo. You do something and expect something in return, so showing appreciation isn’t necessary because the reciprocity is already built into the exchange. However, I believe we’re shown favor a good amount more than we acknowledge—and maybe we need to become increasingly aware of those occasions so we properly acknowledge them. From the spouse who brings you a cup of coffee in the morning to the driver who gives you the right of way to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, whose daily wholeness, healing, preservation, protection, and provision we take for granted — a sincere, heartfelt “Thank You” or other phrase of appreciation shows the recipient respect, honor, and consideration.
I’ll take my own words to heart and start right now, as there’s a Thank You I need to send to another dear friend who treated me to a wonderful respite at her home last evening.
