by Meena Menezes

Created on: June 26, 2010   Last Updated: June 28, 2010

'Thank you' says it all  

There is no denying that each of us has special qualities that make us unique.

Yet, as human beings we have this fervent need for acceptance, especially amongst family and friends, the need to be acknowledged and appreciated for the person that we are.

Despite that, we also have a tendency to take people for granted and often forget to be appreciative of how important they are and how they impact our lives.

Appreciation or the lack of it can to a great extent contribute towards enhancing another person's happiness and self-esteem, or crushing it.

It is important for people, especially those dear to your heart, to be told now and again that they are appreciated.

It is the little things that make a difference, whether it is a heartfelt "thank you", "let me help you with that", or "why don't you relax and let me do it".

It is in the beaming smile you receive, when you surprise a dear one with a simple yet meaningful note, a bunch of flowers or a single rose, favourite cologne, or a book, simply to show how much you care.

It is in the comforting arm of a friend, holding onto you, reminding you that you are not alone when you are down and out. It is in the pat on the back for a job well done.

Strange then, when it doesn't take much effort to show our appreciation, many of us still fail to do so thinking it unnecessary.

The truth is that it is necessary.

Why do we simply assume that someone knows; even if they do, what does it cost to make someone's day, by letting them know how much you appreciate them for who they are, what they have done, or for simply being in your life?

You have nothing to lose, yet it could mean a lot to that person. It could reinforce their confidence in their abilities and enhance their self-worth, knowing that they have made a difference, irrespective of how big or small.

We are always so quick to criticise, to find fault or to blame another person, little realising that sometimes due to our lack of sensitivity, we fracture hopes, crush dreams and are the reason for their misery, their tears.

Shouldn't we strike a balance and be as quick with our praise as we are with our criticism and appreciate that same person, for all that they do?

Why do we take them for granted and treat them as a non-entity or their actions as insignificant?

Through personal experience, through lost opportunities, I have over time learnt the importance of vocalising my appreciation towards the people who make a positive difference to my life.

I don't ever want to regret having left it too late; whether it is family, friends, neighbours, the lady at the cafeteria who serves me with a beaming smile, the stranger who patiently directs my efforts to park my car in a tight spot, or the security guard outside my office who greets me every morning.

In the process of appreciating them, I am rewarded with a hug, a smile, a thank you, a 'you made my day' - all wonderful gestures that simply underline how much I am appreciated too.

Like they say, what goes around comes around!

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