A "Thank You" Affect

An etiquette and protocol expert in the Netherlands, posted a discussion on LinkedIn. The question was “Will you write a “Thank You” letter? Or do you send an email, make a phone call, or just simply text a message to the host after attending a nice dinner party?”

How times have changed. The responses varied from e-cards to “I prefer a phone call.” Overall, the majority favored sending a card to say “Thank You.”

Have you ever considered that it is not just a card? It is an act of civility. If we live to reflect our personal best, then handwriting a response is one more coat on the polish of our manners. In addition, it is an exercise of discipline. We should make it a habit.

The Bible says in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Every thing excludes nothing!

Clearly, we owe a debt of obligation to others. More importantly, we are to be a pattern and precedent of thankfulness for the goodness of mankind and the next generation.

The effect of a handwritten note is the smile you add to someone’s day. Go the extra mile in what you say and do. A desensitized society and tolerance for lower standards continues to reflect the need for us to be giving attention to these little things that matter.

Unfortunately, overindulgence makes us less sensitive in communicating gratitude and complimenting someone for his or her kind deed.

“Pay a compliment - It is a cashless investment” © – Deborah Choma

Handwriting a "Thank You" note represents a personal touch in communicating one's gratitude. This is a universal language that everyone understands and appreciates. It will never go out of style!

Figuratively, handwriting thins the veil for us to experience value and appreciation. Furthermore, it is invigorating! A card or handwritten note uncovers closeness. This is far superior in nature to anything experienced through methods that are more convenient.

The Affects of a “Thank You”

• It is a polite thing to do
• We develop an "others" mindset
• It is pleasing to God and man
• Handwriting a card is a delightful discipline
• It reflects respect
• It is the placement of grace
• Investing time and attention into someone's life
• We experience an emotional connection
• It has the potential to brighten someone's day
• The sum total of text, email, or a phone call, pale in comparison
• It is a gift of words
• An opportunity to affirm character
• An expression of our enjoyment and future recollection
• Demonstrates a purpose to acknowledge the efforts of others
• It projects gratitude and a willingness to put others first

Just to name a few!

Wrapped in an envelope is not just a card; it is a pictogram of time, effort, and encouragement, not the least, an ability to show others that we care.

“Our “Thank You” never runs the risk of offending a person.” © – Deborah Choma

The Steps for a Thank You

1. Draft your “Thank You” on a piece of paper and tweak it to suit the application.
2. When writing a “Thank You,” remember to focus on the person and the message. Keep to the point and a goal of gratitude.
3. After you address the person, identify what you enjoyed or appreciated. Apply these statements first. It is polite to highlight the goodness of the other person.
4. Use the sandwich approach when writing. The bread is the beginning. The meat is your compliment and content. Finish with the yeast of encouragement.
5. Use the recipient’s name throughout the body of your message. This quantifies the “Thank You” and makes them feel especially important. Twice is nice, no more!

Have you stopped to think about the wealth of information, different techniques, and the myriad of knowhow’s on what to do and when to do it? Yet the majority of individuals do not write a "Thank You" or express their appreciation for anything.

It matters!

Thankfulness is a virtue of gratitude. If we never exercise this simple task then how is it possible to acknowledge the priceless gift of our Salvation?

When clouded by a lack of appreciation, it will pay to remember the cross. God sent His only Son to become the only sinless man and to offer Himself as a living sacrifice. Christ paid the penalty for all our sins. Christ’s death on the cross and His resurrection guarantee Eternal life to us all!

By God's grace alone, Eternal life is accessible to everyone, "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 6:23 We have access to this grace by faith "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:" Ephesians 2:8

It is impossible to number the good things God has done for us. As we consider and especially remember that we live in a world of redeeming love, then we shall have plenty to uncover and to be thankful.

Our “Thank You” must have an Eternal perspective to have an Eternal effect.

Until Next Time...x