Saying "Thank You" in little ways that mean a lot

     Recently, a family friend was considering applying for a new job.  He wasn't sure about whether or not he should apply, as he didn't have the exact requirements for the position, but he wanted to give it a try. 

     His wife thought it would be a good idea for me to give him some advice about writing a cover letter, since it had been years since he'd needed something like that in writing.  They both know I like to write (!), so of course, I said, "Yes!"

     After working together for about 90 minutes, we accomplished as much as we could in the time that we had, working on the application and some of the essay questions.  He later wondered if he should not apply for the position, but with the encouragement of one of the people doing the hiring, he followed through and applied.  After two interviews, someone else was chosen.  He feels fine about this, as he knew ahead of time that he didn't have all of the necessary qualifications or work experience in this field. 

     Since I have always enjoyed helping out others, I was happy to do this, and I didn't mind the time that it took.

     I was very surprised to receive a "thank you" card in the mail this week from him, with one of these included:

a Starbucks card!

     Sometimes, it's the little things like this that can really make a person's day special.  I wasn't expecting anything back in return for helping out a little bit.  My friendship with this particular couple has brought me a lot of JOY over the last few years - and I'm blessed to know them! 

     The gift card was a sweet way to say thank you, and I appreciate it.  Seeing the handwritten thank you note, something that is such a rarity in this day and age, also was a nice touch. 

     Thank you, my friends, for bringing me joy in so many ways...and for the kind "thank you" gift.  It wasn't expected or even necessary, but it brought me joy...especially since they know that we rarely buy coffee drinks from Starbucks or other coffee businesses. 

     This week, I would like to encourage you to take the time to thank someone special in your life for something they have done recently to help you out or encourage you.  Even if you have no extra money in your pocket, a handwritten note to thank them for being who they are and for what they do would be a delight for anyone to receive.

     Who are you thinking of right now, someone who deserves a thank you note for their sacrificial gifts they provide you?  How wonderful to bring them some joy by a little gesture of your appreciation this week!

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