Such a relatively simple word but one that is jammed packed with all sorts of interpretations and reactions. Have you considered the word? I’m totally convinced that this one aspect impacts so much of our feelings and subsequent behavior, many times without our awareness. Are you the recipient of words (and acts?) of appreciation? Do you provide words (and acts?) of appreciation to others? How is appreciation manifested in your world?
We need to begin with a common definition. To me, appreciate implies a valuing, esteeming, an acknowledgement – BUT a known to others, not just an internal act. Webster defines appreciate as: “to be grateful or thankful for, to value or highly regard…” One of the synonyms is ‘treasure’. And to treasure something/someone means a conscious valuing. Unfortunately, the problem is that it also is rarely stated. Which leads me to wonder how often I am remiss in not telling those in my world that I appreciate them simply for who they are and am blessed by their involvement in my life. Granted we often thank them when they do something for us, but how often is the appreciation expressed when there isn’t an act prompting it?
So… what about you. Do you let others know that you appreciate them? And is this said, not in a general sense, but specifically and with intentionality? I’m convinced that many times this is what underscores our attitudes and behavior. We truly aren’t aware if what we do is of any importance … to anyone. Overly dramatic? A tad, but the point is we rarely realize who we are and what we do is appreciated and that we rarely express our appreciation as well.
Quite often I think that appreciation is one of those… ‘it goes without saying…’ Rubbish. It’s the saying that will support what we (continue to) do. And yes, we probably shouldn’t need this but most of the time we do. It really is quite irrelevant as to whether or not we should but what our awareness should spark is that we too need to provide this valuing for others. It doesn’t take a lot of time and it reaps a tremendous reaction. Appreciate. A little word that means a great deal.
