A friend of mine once pointed out that I didn't seem to say "thank you" very often. Until that moment, I had never realized that in many situations, I simply accepted the things others did for me without expressing my gratitude. My friend may have mentioned it casually, but it was a real wake-up call for me, and I still keep it in mind to this day.
I've found that it seems easier to express gratitude when interacting with people who aren't as close to us. For instance, if I go on a trip and my neighbor helps take care of my dogs, I would make sure to bring a gift and personally express my thanks. However, when it comes to close family and friends, it's as if the many things they do for me have become expected, and I somehow forget to show my appreciation.
From where I grew up, I've heard people say, and I used to think this way too, that we're all family, so there's no need for thanks. Saying "thank you" for doing something can feel a bit formal.
But I don't see it that way anymore.
Now, I believe that not only should we say "thank you," but we should also jump at every chance to say it, whether at home, at work, or in any other situation. Saying "thank you" doesn't take much effort, but it can bring a touch of warmth to the person being appreciated.
When I first realized that I wasn't in the habit of saying thank you, I discovered that changing this behavior wasn't easy. I used to be more introverted, and expressing emotions outwardly has always been challenging for me. Even when I consciously told myself, "Now, say thank you to this person," it felt like there was a mental block holding me back. I tried to push through this for a while, and it gradually became more natural over time.
Today, my husband made delicious braised green beans with noodles, and the three of us each devoured a big bowl. As I slurped up the noodles bite after bite and watched our baby also stuffing noodles into their mouth, I said to my husband, "The noodles you made are so delicious! Paired with fresh garlic, it's simply perfect!"
When our baby was eating and waving around the remaining half of an apple, they didn't throw it on the ground but instead placed it in my hand. I said to the baby, "Thank you, sweetheart!"
My husband never hesitates to express gratitude, and now I can also openly express my thanks in front of our baby and other family members. Growing up in this family atmosphere, our baby will also be subtly influenced and gradually learn to appreciate others.
What does it feel like to be able to appreciate others and be appreciated at any time in life?
Just thinking about it feels wonderful.
❤️
I couldn't resist drawing a simple and heartwarming picture of my family of three enjoying noodles together.
