Appreciations are part of every marriage group. They also show up when we go out with another couple. I never tire of hearing what people say about their partner or watching the face of the person being spoken about.
"I really appreciate you taking care of the kids when I had to work on Saturday. You didn't seem at all resentful.
Thanks."
"I am really grateful that you believe in me. Applying for a new job is scary, and knowing you have my back makes all the difference."
A friend sent an article with a new twist. A mother put up a chalkboard in her home and challenged everyone to write things they notice about other family members. She did the first few herself but then it caught on.
"Anna shared her snack
with me, and it made me happy."
"I was feeling sad because of what happened at school and Michael made me laugh to cheer me up."
"Dad came to my soccer game even though he was super busy. I loved seeing him cheer!"
The thing is, those good things were already there before anyone noticed. But their power increased for having been acknowledged. Written
down.
Kids started to talk about it during the day.
"Thanks! I will write that on the board!"
Their mom noticed them sneaking a peek to see if anyone had written about them. Everyone made an effort to look for, and find the generosity that was sprinkled throughout each day. Which meant they were honing the skill of finding them.
Wouldn't it be fun if all of us had our own
stenographer who kept track of those very moments, and transcribed them for everyone to see? How would it feel to go back and read the entries of a whole month, or a year? The blessings would double and triple in value. Once when someone did it. Second when it was received. Third when you paused to remember.
Love,
Lori
