Thanks

Just recently, there was a dispute in a local shopping center that started after one woman did not say “thank you” to another woman who had politely held the door open for her. The argument continued in the store and escalated into a physical altercation in the parking lot. Once outside, the woman who did not say “Thank you” shot the other woman multiple times and killed her. All this over two words, “Thank you.”

Over the years, I have learned that some of the most powerful words in our language are also the simplest. “Thank you.” Two short words that can change a moment, lift a spirit, or strengthen a bond. We say them often—sometimes out of habit—but when spoken with sincerity, they carry a quiet grace that lingers long after the words fade.

Saying thank you is more than a polite gesture; it is an act of recognition. It tells someone, “I see you. I appreciate what you did.” Whether it is a colleague who stayed late to help finish a project, a friend who checks in just to see how you are doing, or a stranger who offers a small kindness, those moments deserve acknowledgment. Gratitude reminds us that none of us succeeds or survives entirely on our own. We are lifted, supported, and encouraged by others every single day, often in ways we do not fully realize until we pause to say thanks.

Some years ago, I received a phone call from a colleague that I had known for many years. He and his wife are still great friends of mine. He called to say he needed to see me in person and wondered when I was available. It sounded important and he did not want to speak on the phone, so we set up a time for him to stop by my home. My mind was in overdrive trying to anticipate what he could possibly need to see me about. When he arrived, he proceeded to explain that he wanted to see me in person so he could Thank me face to face for something I did that was helpful to him and his family. The interesting part is that I was unaware of how my actions affected him. To this day, it is still one of the most powerful, heartfelt expressions of Thanks I have ever received.

I have noticed that when I make the effort to express genuine gratitude, it does something for me, too. It softens my perspective. It reminds me of how much good still exists in the world and how many people quietly contribute to it. Gratitude shifts the focus from what is missing to what is meaningful. Even in difficult seasons, especially then choosing to say thank you can bring light to the darker corners of life.

In the workplace, I have seen firsthand how a simple “thank you” can make all the difference. Titles and paychecks matter, of course, but people also crave acknowledgment. When employees feel seen and appreciated, they bring more of themselves to their work. They care more deeply, try harder, and take pride in what they do. A culture of gratitude builds trust and fuels teamwork in ways that rules or incentives never could.

But beyond the professional world, gratitude deepens our personal relationships. It connects us. It humbles us. It reminds us that kindness should never be taken for granted. A quick note, a text, or a few heartfelt words can turn an ordinary encounter into a meaningful exchange. I think of all the people who have crossed my path—teachers, mentors, friends, even strangers—whose small gestures made a lasting difference. I wish I had said thank you more often and more intentionally.

How should I feel if someone does not say Thank You? We have all experienced that. If someone does not say thank you, it is natural to feel a mix of emotions: maybe disappointed, unappreciated, or even hurt — especially if you went out of your way or acted with genuine kindness. Gratitude validates effort; when it is missing, it can feel like your contribution went unseen.

But it is also helpful to remember that people express appreciation in different ways, and sometimes not at all — not because they do not value you, but because they are distracted, unaware, or were raised in environments where gratitude was not emphasized. Their silence often says more about them than about your worth or the value of what you did.

I have learned that a healthy way to manage it is to acknowledge your own good intentions. You did something kind because it was right, not because you needed a response. Feeling slighted is okay — it means you care about mutual respect — but do not let someone else’s lack of manners take away from your grace.

In the end, saying thank you is not about formality or good manners, it is about awareness. It is about pausing long enough to recognize the goodness around us and the people who make life a little better. Gratitude does not just make others feel valued; it changes us, too.

So, wherever you are, whatever your day holds, take a moment to say thank you—to someone else, or even for something small in your own life. It is amazing how two simple words can open hearts, build bridges, and remind us that kindness still has a place in this busy world.

— In a world that often forgets to pause, gratitude reminds us of what truly matters. Say thank you and mean it. Thank you for reading my blog!

Take care of yourself and each other!