“Appreciation can make a day-even change a life,

Your willingness to put it into words is all that is necessary.”

 

Just by reading these words fills you with positivity. Isn’t it? Now just imagine if someone appreciates you for what you have done, then how would you feel? Appreciation doesn’t always have to be for a big thing. Simple, day-to-day, routine acts also demand and deserve appreciation. I have experienced this gesture time to time. Sometimes at my kid’s school or sometimes among my acquaintances.

 

Very recently, I had the same experience. I went to pick up my son from school. I happened to meet my daughter’s (who is in middle school now) Pre-K teacher there who currently volunteers at the school. We exchanged hello and a few casual talks. It is difficult for any teacher to memorize their past student’s names, so it was expected for me to give my introduction and remind her of my daughter’s name. But later, what she said made me feel so good, and it was a certificate for me as a mom. When I told her about my daughter, she instantly said: “is she the one who gifted me a hand-made wall hanging and a scarf?” Believe me; I was surprised to listen to this. I said, “yes, that is correct, and I truly appreciate that you still remember that after 7 years.” On this, she said, “nowadays, very few parents take out time and put their efforts into getting involved with kids and create something hand-made. For a teacher, those are the precious gifts. Thanks for being such an involved and enthusiastic parent. You are upbringing an empathetic kid.” I felt so touched that I couldn’t say anything beyond this. It filled my heart with so much of happiness that I could only say, “our kids are blessed to have teachers like you who admire and appreciate such small efforts.”

 

This was just one example. I have come across many such occasions when the appreciation that I have gotten has touched me deeply. One such example is when I was in a grocery store with my son. That time he was picking up a few short sentences. While sitting in the cart, very casually, he asked me, “Are you hungry Aai?” I said no, “I am not. Thanks for asking. Are you hungry?” Now to me, this was a routine conversation, but the store manager who was standing there heard this and said, “Mommy, that was a wonderful way of acknowledgment. Keep up the good work.” I thought for a while. Wow..how much appreciation these people have? It wasn’t that I was waiting for such words, but when you get to hear kind words at unexpected places and from unexpected people, it feels lovely. Do you agree?

 

Another thing is no matter what you do; you will not be judged because of your work status. I am talking about Americans here. It makes me feel sad that when another Indian judge you based your work status. We all know about the US immigration rules, but when they treat your efforts, your work inferior, then it hurts. For this, I genuinely respect Americans who value your work. They respect your talent. Even if it is your passion or just a hobby, they appreciate it, which makes you feel good about it.

 

This country has taught me to show a gesture of appreciation and gratitude. Quite often, we don’t say the most important words. We take those words very casually and lightly. But such words can brighten up someone’s day. They can be a source of inspiration to someone to keep going. You tell me. Do you compliment others just like that? Or you think for a while that I don’t know this person, why should I talk to her, or why should I compliment? Think about it. How would you feel if you hear such words? What will be your first reaction? Will you be glad to get the compliments or you will think about why this person is complimenting me if s(he) doesn’t know me.  If we start following these words – “Add a sprinkle of appreciation to your day. Then watch it grow!”, then I feel appreciation will start to come from within.

 

This is the first post #A2ZBlogchatter series. My theme is “Dollar Nation- Are You Ready To Experience The West Through My Eyes”