“Good men and bad men differ radically. Bad men never appreciate kindness shown them, but wise men appreciate and are grateful. Wise men try to express their appreciation and gratitude by some return of kindness, not only to their benefactor, but to everyone else.” Buddha
While sharing the benefits of gratitude during my programs, inevitably someone will allude to the fact that no matter how many times they say “thank you” or show appreciation to a particular person in their life, this person never acknowledges the effort. Other workshop attendees will share the trials and tribulations of being around someone who never says “thank you,” no matter how large the gift or service is. We all have people like this in our lives. No matter what you do, you are never going to change everyone – so stop trying.
Express your appreciation and gratitude to others because it makes YOU feel good. Experience the happiness that occurs when you feel true thankfulness. Give kindness because you want to make the world a better place, once random act at a time. Think about the most considerate, grateful person you know and model the characteristics and behavior that you admire. Start acting like the person you aspire to be – and you will make a difference to everyone you come into contact with.
Don’t let the naysayers rain on your parade. Let your smile and your kindness be your umbrella.
PS – You also have the choice to limit the time you spend with the people who make you feel worse when you are around them.
