I am reminded of a story that my mother used to share about a 10 year old boy who was invited to his friend’s home for dinner. Before the dinner, his parents sat him down and coached him on his manners. They told him how important it was to be polite – especially if he wanted a return invitation. They shared the usual advice; chew with your mouth closed, keep your elbows off the table, put your napkin on your lap, compliment the meal and make sure to be grateful. The boy arrived on time and had a blast playing with his friend until they were called to the dinner table. The family served liver and onions. Despite his dislike of the food being served, the boy followed his parents instructions; chewed very slowly making sure his mouth was closed, used his napkin when needed and so forth. He told the family how much he loved the dinner. Everything went so well that the following month the boy was invited back. What did the family serve? Liver and onions of course!!!
While most of us know how to say, “thank you”, it takes effort to generate the experience of being genuinely grateful. When gratitude feels forced and inauthentic, it’s time to give it a second glance. True gratitude celebrates the giver – the action of thanking the source – as well as the feeling of thankfulness. While it is still important to be polite, be sure to adopt a method of giving thanks that feels meaningful to you, intentional, and empowering. Check out next month’s blog for tips on how to write fabulous thank you letters.
Please share your fun stories with underlying lessons to Nadine@WAITTforCommunity.com I look forward to hearing from you and THANK YOU in advance!