With the holidays, at least the gift giving holidays, behind us for a while I have to give some advice. I know it is unsolicited advice, but just say “thank you” after you learn this lesson. The lesson is to say “thank you.”
For some reason saying “thank you” is often quite difficult to say. Or, maybe we do not know how to say it without adding a “but….” We have all been there and sometimes the moment is awkward. It does not have to be. It can be as easy as learning to say the two words and nothing more.
Let me give you an example. During the holidays one of our relatives who is not the most positive among us told another relative how nice she looked. In fact, she complimented the young lady by saying, “You look so nice in that blue dress.” Okay, maybe she didn’t have to add the “blue dress” part but she did and we have all done it at some time. The young woman responded, “Thank you. It’s old, but it’s comfortable.” So, the older woman picked up on the conversation by saying, “It doesn’t look old.” And, so on and on and on.
Another incident was even more awkward when one of the older adults gave a present to one of the younger ones. Instead of saying “thank you” and showing appreciation, the younger one offered “Thanks. I’m sorry but we didn’t get you a gift.” Oh, please. Just say, “Thank you.” Open the gift and show your appreciation.
The holiday season creates awkward times for everyone. Many of us feel as if giving gifts is not giving, but trading. That really takes the spirit of giving away from the one who is doing the giving.
Here’s my advice, unsolicited as it may be. When you receive a compliment, just say “thank you” and mean it. When you receive a gift, just say “thank you” and mean it. In those instances when you receive a gift and did not have one to give in return, just say “thank you” and mean it. For those who feel uncomfortable when receiving a gift without one to give, do not make excuses or ramble on and on. Make a mental note and when the gift giver’s birthday or anniversary rolls around, be sure to send a card and maybe a small gift, although a card will often suffice. Or, just give the person a phone call at some point. It is a few moments of personal attention and recognition that most older people most appreciate.
In other words, show gratitude by saying “thank you.”
