Two things I think you should consider about Thanksgiving (not just “American” Thanksgiving, although that’s on my mind): the first one’s easy, the second, maybe harder.
First, take a minute to be thankful. And be specific. It’s a good time for a list.
Around Oneicity and our house, we’re grateful to the King for His provision and care.
The rest of my list looks like this:
I’m thankful for my partner in all things, My Beloved Hoots
Thankful for those two teenagers in my house
Grateful for the grown two in Texas and their charming baby
Delighted that all our parents are with us — and still kicking!
Fortunate to have siblings — the sister I grew up with and the in-laws who’ve shown up to make life good and full
Amazed to be surrounded by a team that’s “all-in” all the time
Blessed to serve clients who are changing the world, one life at a time
Amazed to have friends who are happy to see me (or will act like it)
I’m so grateful that in crushing troubles and confusing worries, I can see hope and promise (that doesn’t come from me, it’s another gift I’ve been given)
As part of my work, I regularly interview people who have fallen past rock bottom in life. I’m humbled to hear first-hand about homelessness, addiction and abuse. The amazing thing is: I know that except for the grace of God, I could be there. For that sweet consideration, I’m very grateful.
You probably have a similar list of your own. I hope you can find room in the tight spaces of life to say “thanks,” no matter how great your struggle or busy your life. This gratitude thing changes your view of what’s happening around you.
That’s the part of Thanksgiving you probably are good at.
The Harder Second Part:
How about saying “thank you” to the people who serve you and work with you?
This would be a good time for saying “thank you” to the people who make every happen in you life. The people you don’t have to say “thank you” to. We’re surrounded by men and women who make our lives better.
What an amazing thing for you to go out of your way this week to say “thank you” to them? I’ve been thinking about how really thanking people respects them. It changes the dynamic.
What about a huge “thank you” for the Admin at the office who smiles through your mistakes and still makes you look good?
How about a big ol’ “I appreciate you” to the printer who somehow squeezes out a miracle one more time?
Or that web designer who manages to read your mind (in spite of what you asked for) and things work beautifully.
Or the people who remember your order (and name!)?
You get the idea. Most of us have people around us who are delivering for us day-in and day-out. They’d be blessed by eye contact and a very specific “thank you” for what they do. I still like the formula we came up with for “Good Job Monday.”
I hope gratitude fills your heart and your life. And that you let it spill out…
Oh, and thank you for being on this journey with me. There’s fun stuff ahead. I can’t wait for experience it with you.
So. Are you with me on this grateful kick? I’d love to hear from you if you try thanking the people who serve you. I’d love to know what you’ve experienced when people are thankful for you. Leave a comment here. Pop over to Facebook or give me a shout-out on Twitter. I love hearing from you.
Steve Thomas
Partner, Oneicity
(photo credit:Jeff Turner
