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When you receive a gift, you no doubt give thanks to the giver. Your appreciation might be stated verbally, or penned in a thank you card or sent through cyberspace. Or you may let everyone know you got a gift by thanking the giver on Facebook or Twitter. And that’s usually the end of the transaction.
But think about giving thanks again later. That’s when the giver will know you really did like the gift, and use it and enjoy it.
When you’ve worn that sweater for the 10th time – tell the giver again how comfortable it is and how you think of them every time you wear it.
When that plant flowers for the fourth time and brings you joy – let the giver know how their gift keeps giving.
When your son is grown, tell him again how much you enjoyed the ash tray he crafted for you in second grade. Let your daughter know you still have that hand print she gave you for Mother’s Day when she was in the first grade.
Presents are such energizing things. They are worth far more than simple thanks at the time of their presentation. Bring them to life again years later just by renewing your thanks. You’ll conjure up sweet memories and smiles.
If you’re really lucky, you may hear from someone to whom you gave a gift long ago. Then you’ll know how good it feels to get late breaking thanks.
[Show #461]
I have done this recently. A friend in another state crocheted some kitchen dish clothes for me, and every time I take out a fresh one, I think of her kindness. I have had these dish clothes for months, and I just sent her another thank you note last month. I should do it for other gifts as well.
I’m sure you made her day, Karen.
Thanks for this. Great idea.
About a year ago I started sending only hand written thank you notes, no more email notes. I feel better about it. Could be an age thing. Thanks.