On Gratitude

“Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.” 
― Ralph Waldo Emerson

The art of saying "thank you" is vanishing.  Carefully-written letters of gratitude have been subbed for impersonal texts and e-mails.  Sure, we are all rushed, but none of us is truly so busy as to miss an opportunity to let gift-givers know we appreciate them and their thoughtfulness.  


So, as you revel in the last few days of holiday lights, take some time to pause and write a note of thanks.  Seeing your curling script (or perhaps chicken scratch) across a nice note card will make the recipient smile and remember why they gave you a gift in the first place.

Now I'm no Emily Post and I'm certainly guilty of a missed thank-you opportunity (or two), but I do think saying thanks is crucial.  So, here's how to write a thank you note:

• Be personal and greet the giver warmly
• Be specific about the gift you were given and how you intend to use it
• Be timely and mention a future get-together with the gifter
• Be graceful and grateful.  Say "thank you" again.
• Be punctual and mail the letter as quickly as you can.

How do you say thanks?

Image borrowed from Pinterest.