Being appreciative for the contribution of others in our lives and making that appreciation known can have a tremendous effect on our relationships and on our general daily experiences.
When people extend a personal effort for the sake of others, it is generally assumed that they do it from a place of love and selflessness...and this is of course good and indeed preferred. But because of this somewhat unconscious assumption, it becomes a little too easy to forget to show our appreciation for their efforts. In many cases, it becomes expected. For instance, we tend to expect our mothers to love us and to act on our behalf selflessly, so we wait until mother's day to show our thanks for all she does. But do we really need a special day reserved out of each year to do that? Not really. It's a nice gesture that is welcomed and appreciated, certainly, but not in and of itself the preferred consideration by most mothers. We should show our thanks to mother in every day moments, every time she puts off having her own dinner to feed us, takes time to listen with care and concern, or supports us in our dreams. It matters every day.
The same is true for every person who touches our lives. Fathers, Teachers, Mentors, Children, Friends, Siblings and Spouses. This is clear. But it is also true for those fleeting voices and influences we encounter. The cab driver, store clerk, bank teller, neighbor, or next person in line. They all deserve appreciation for who they are, what they do, and how they help make the lives of others around them just a little bit better by their contributions, no matter how seemingly small. Even if we're not sure what those contributions are, specifically, we can be sure that most people share a daily interest in being there for their family and friends. Sure, there will be times when they don't present themselves in a helpful or even friendly manner. But we all experience those times and don't always put forth our best self. It is in those times that we may actually need a little extra kindness, so we may do well to remember that when confronted with irritable faces in the crowd or at home.
The best way to show our appreciation to others in the moment is through mindfulness and good manners. Being observant and aware of how our immediate experience is affected by the words, intentions, and actions of others will help us to recognize how our life has been improved by it. It is a good way to remember our manners as well. The simple responses and actions that we give to others in each moment have a profound ability to demonstrate the meaningfulness that others provide to us in our lives. Whenever we have the opportunity, we should stop and pick up what someone dropped, open the door, wait just a few seconds more as someone may need, and say thank you -often.
On some level we all desire to be appreciated. Somewhere inside, it tells us we are making a difference for someone. It reminds us that we are loved, special, considered, and worthy of praise in the good works we do and in every small sacrifice we make for another. Appreciation is acknowledgment. When we feel acknowledged in what we do, we often feel inspired to do more. It creates a positive energy flow. So, let's appreciate those who have touched our lives and continue to do so.
