by Linda White

Created on: April 27, 2008

A gift that is given is love that is sent or given to a precious part of our lives. We give gifts as a token of our love or affection. While, I think it is always nice to receive some gratitude for something that we have done, we should consider the reason that we did it in the first place, out of love. We hope that our children have taught their children to have grateful hearts, but if they do not, should we stop giving that love? I just wonder if the giving the gift should be in and of itself enough. When some joy is expressed or a thank you is extended, then certainly we are pleased to know that the person has enjoyed what we have done. But if the child has not learned to be grateful,or does not express that gratitude to our standard, I question if they should be judged for it.

Perhaps a better thought would be an example that we could set for these kids that are part of our lives. Maybe we could start by making cards or giving them thank you cards with stamps and explaining how and when to use them. maybe adding a nice pen to the package. Cards with their monogram on it would be fun to use.

I keep a book for the greeting cards that I keep from my family so that they know how thankful that I am to receive them. I show my grandkids the crads that I have saved and explain how important and special they are to me. It is gratitude by example.

We can make sure that we send cards or calls when we receive a package, gift or card. If their name is part of the package, we need to thank them specifically either on the phone or in a thank you card, so that they learn how it feels to be thanked.

Should we expect a thank you from anyone when we send or do something special? Society has deemed that a thank you is always in order. It is certainly the right thing to do. But setting an example is a far better choice than being critical. I think it is of great importance to be an influence for the good than being good at being critical. Each of us as grandparents, play an important part in the development of the kids of our kids.No matter if they leave near to us or farther away, we have so many opportunities to teach them. This is one of them

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