How often do we tell the people in our lives how much we appreciate them? Many times I don’t verbalize how much I care because I think people already know and it seems unnecessary to state the obvious.
At a farewell party for someone dear to me, I was pleasantly surprised by how many people had reserved their endearing comments for this occasion. A large group attended the event, and when it was finally my time to speak, I could hardly believe the words that came out of my mouth.
I remembered how the honoree had made a contribution to my life that I continue to find beneficial. A phone call asking me to deliver a Sunday morning message to his congregation helped me understand and clarify my call to ministry. It is still unfolding, but I now realize that it started with that phone call. He appreciated hearing how instrumental and impactful he had been in my life and ministry.
People want to know that they are appreciated. I’m taking this to heart. Several years ago my niece Toia’s husband was in a very serious car accident. He has not fully recovered and depends on her care. She takes him to doctors’ appointments and is the primary driver for the household.
They are a young couple, and I know that it is not easy for her, but she does it with such grace. In addition to her personal and work responsibilities, she was the main organizer for a family gathering of more than 30 people. She planned the menu and helped make it a surprise for some of the people in attendance. I commented to other family members on how great a job she had done, but I never told her. I kept saying that I was going to call, but I didn’t, and I have had plenty of opportunity.
I was talking to Toia about the passing of a friend and she commented on how we should all appreciate each other. I knew it was the perfect time for me to tell her how much I appreciated the dinner that she had planned and how she has expressed so much love for her husband and family. She was so happy that I had shared my feelings, and she agreed that we don’t do that often enough. She shared her feelings for me as well.
My prayer point is to pray that God shows us the people in our lives who can benefit the most from our words of appreciation and gratitude. Sharing with my niece gave me such a great sense of satisfaction, because her voice lifted when I told her that she was loved. That was a sign to me that her heart was also encouraged. I challenge you to let someone know how much you care.
God bless you!
