My week was completely brightened by an ‘out of the blue’ note and a small gift. The little person who sent it is not one of my own (though I’d happily treat her such.) She saw a small book in a store, thought of me, and sent it along with a card.

It couldn’t have come at a better time. The college process for the oldest Kelly kid is in full-swing. The news headlines are… challenging. Covid is still raging about our society. There is a lot of division everywhere.

And then this little package arrives and brings sunlight into my whole week.

William Ward once said ‘feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.’ Well, this young one sent the present and it made a big impact on me.

A Reminder

By her action, my young friend did two things. First, she surprised and delighted me. Seeing the book on my desk and reading through has brought a smile to my face daily. Someone was thinking of me.

Secondly, she reminded me that the expression of gratitude is more important than the silent feeling of it. The latter is a compliment to yourself, really. The other person or thing* for which you are grateful doesn’t know it.

The former is something of community and connection. That is what betters our whole world. And, yes, it’s exactly what we need.

This Weekend

Write a ‘thank you’ note and send it. Reach out to friend or loved one with whom you’ve not connected lately and catch up. Do something ‘out of the blue’ for someone.

It doesn’t have to be a gift or a card. But make the effort. The expression of your gratitude will bring joy to you both. They are worth it… and so are you. Have a great weekend!

*By the way, if you don’t think you can express gratitude to a ‘thing’, Hideki Matsuyama’s caddy, Shota Hayafuji, did just that at the completion of last year’s Masters.