301 Days ’til 40: Attitude of Gratitude (And My 100th Post!)

At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us. ~ Albert Schweitzer

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them. ~ John F. Kennedy

People can be a challenge to deal with, a challenge to live with – both at work and home.  I find that within all the humanness comes discontent, anger, negativity, lack of motivation, small quarrels, etc.  Recently I have become keenly aware of one small quality that can drastically change the work and home environments.  Gratitude.

When I take the time to thank my employees, particularly when they are not expecting it, it catches them off guard, in a positive way.  So often we expect the negativity, the reprimands, etc.  When the thank you’s come, it will even take us back…… it makes us pause, think…… stop and catch our breath……. and then, it makes us smile.  We understand that someone understood our good intentions, someone “caught” us doing something right, someone noticed – someone cared.

A few years ago I promised myself that during the first month of school I would purposely sit down and write one thank you to a college each evening.  They had no clue I set out to do this.  It was such a wonderful experience, for me as well as for them.  As I sat down to write these notes to my colleagues, it allowed me to reflect on what it was about each individual I was thankful for and that strengthened the relationships I had with these individuals immensely.  I could reflect on the things I appreciated (and remember them in the times of frustration) and they were able to know that I really did take the time to acknowledge them.

Today, 301 days ’til 40, I want to take a moment to thank you, my readers.  With this, my 100th post, I am now 25% of the way through my 400 day journey to 40.  I have already learned so much and challenged myself – through my blogging and in other areas of my life.  You too have challenged me, with your insights and ideas – and even your corrections when you felt my ideas may have been a bit linear and rigid.  I look forward to the continued journey and the next 300 days.  Thank you for joining me on this wonderful adventure.  Your presence in my life is a gift.

“We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” – Thornton Wilder

~400daystil40