Hello, dear friend,
How are you today? I hope you are well. It’s been quite rainy in the UK, and I have transitioned jobs yet again. I find that with these changes, I am forced to bring out the extrovert deep within me, meeting new people, bonding with teams, and finding my way of working quickly to deliver effective and safe care to my patients.
I told you guys a few weeks ago that I was taking a course with Heaven’s Gate Academy, and recently we were taught to examine how we move from space to space. I have certainly found that my inner reserved self is my norm, but there is an extroverted self which I call on when I need her. I love her, but she exhausts me. lol.
Can you relate?
In many areas of our lives, as we interact with people, at home, work, on the streets, we often get a chance to recieve and offer small kindnesses. Holding those moments as precious and not taking them for granted is something that I want us to consider today.
The partner that is honest and open, the wife that always has a meal ready and a hug, the husband that humbly carries the weight of leadership, the child that listens to instructions, the handyman that always shows up when called, the secretary that makes sure your admin time is protected, so many kindnesses are aimed at us daily.
Do we notice?
The act of gratitude is one of the purest ways we connect with others. It’s how we say, “I see you. I appreciate you. You matter to me.”
We must fight to retain its expression in the busyness of life — work deadlines, parenting, traffic, and everything in between — it’s easy to feel gratitude and forget to express it. Say it, write it, text it, show it, release it into others.
The truth is, gratitude unspoken can sometimes feel like love unseen.
So, today, let’s talk about simple, heartfelt ways to express gratitude to the people who make your life brighter — your friends, family, colleagues, and even the quiet helpers around you. We must not hold our ego or pride above gratitude, even to God for life, for health, for provision, for peace, and mercy daily.
Ah! Lord, on behalf of this person reading this, I am grateful!!!!! Accept our thanks, Lord, for everything that you are doing in his/her life.
Why it Matters
When we take the time to show appreciation, we’re doing more than saying thank you. We’re affirming value, deepening trust, and strengthening emotional bonds, opening gates for an ever-increasing measure to flow to and from us.
I came across this study that shows expressing gratitude improves relationships, reduces stress, and increases happiness — both for the giver and receiver. It reminds your loved ones that their efforts are seen and their presence is cherished.
It’s not about grand gestures; it’s about genuine connection, a smile, eye contact, a note, a timely unsolicited gesture.
Simple Ways to Express Gratitude
1. Say It — Don’t Save It
Sometimes, all it takes is a sincere, “Thank you for being you.”
Call or text that person who has been kind, patient, or supportive. Let them know exactly what you appreciate.
Example:
“I’ve been thinking about how much your encouragement meant to me last week. Thank you for showing up when I needed it most.”
My friend did this for me this week, and we shared such a loving time reflecting on our journey over the years and how we have both benefited from our friendship, even though we never imagined we would get here…. God knew.
Those words can stay with someone long after the moment has passed.
2. Write a Thoughtful Note
Handwritten notes never go out of style. Leave a small note on your partner’s pillow, your child’s lunchbox, or your colleague’s desk.
It doesn’t have to be long — just sincere. A few heartfelt lines can warm someone’s entire day.
3. Give Your Time and Attention
In a world full of distractions, your undivided attention is one of the greatest gifts.
Put away your phone, make eye contact, and listen — really listen. Gratitude is expressed beautifully in presence, not just in words.
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4. Celebrate the Little Things
Don’t wait for birthdays or anniversaries to appreciate people.
Celebrate the small victories — finishing a tough week, making progress on a goal, showing up when they didn’t feel like it.
A simple “I’m proud of you” can fill someone’s heart with strength.
5. Acts of Service
If words don’t come easily to you, do something thoughtful.
Cook a meal, help with chores, run an errand, or offer a ride. Acts of service communicate love and gratitude without saying a word.
6. Public Praise, Private Encouragement
If your loved one is comfortable with it, acknowledge them publicly — in a group chat, at work, or on social media.
It shows that you’re not only thankful in private but proud to celebrate them openly.
Just as importantly, follow it up with personal words of encouragement. Gratitude thrives in both big and small spaces.
7. Create a Gratitude Ritual
Make appreciation part of your family rhythm.
You can:
● Share one thing you’re grateful for at dinner.
● Keep a gratitude jar and add notes weekly.
● Do “gratitude walks” where you talk about what you’re thankful for.
This helps everyone, including children, develop a habit of expressing thanks openly and often.
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A Thought to Leave You With
Gratitude doesn’t need to be perfect — it just needs to be real.
Sometimes it’s a whisper. Sometimes it’s a hug. Sometimes it’s just sitting beside someone and saying, “I’m glad you’re here.”
So today, pause and ask yourself: Who has made my life easier, brighter, or better this week?
Then, let them know.
Because love grows stronger every time gratitude is spoken aloud, consider it like a seed sown; it will yield fruit. Start sowing the right things intentionally today.
Until next time — stay warm, stay growing, stay loving, stay whole.
With love and light,
Amaka
