Writing Thanks

Maybe it’s a lost art. Maybe folks are too busy. But I wonder if the reason so many don’t write a simple thank you note is because we’ve forgotten something important.

Being thankful.

So here’s a short holiday challenge…

Think of five people who’ve done something to encourage you this year.

Got that list?

Now here’s the hard part. Take thirty minutes and jot them a little thank you note. Or send them an e-card. Nothing too elaborate. Because this is one of those neat places where the thought really does count.

This is something I’ve taught my kids to have fun doing. When they were younger, they drew pictures and I dictated what they wanted to say. Stickers, crayons and a special pen were all it took to make this activity enjoyable.

Now they draw elaborate pictures and write their own very precious messages.

Sometimes, it’s a little like pulling teeth though. That’s when I whip out my handy mom logic and remind them about cards and notes they’ve received in the mail. There’s just something special about them.

And I add that being thankful and saying so is a gift in itself.

Think about it. When’s the last time someone said thanks and you knew they meant it? Maybe a short email from a writing buddy. Or a holiday card a child crafted in Sunday school.

Some of my favorite Thanksgiving memories are when my kids have waxed crafty and created a list of things they’re thankful for. Or we’ve gone around the dinner table reminiscing over the year and started saying thanks to the people who made those memories special.

It doesn’t take much. But it says love in an extra special way.

So, make someone’s day with a thank you note. You might just experience an amazing result welling up in your own heart.

Joy.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!