It is important to say thank you because:
• We recognize that someone had a choice – they didn’t have to send us a gift. We are not entitled to a gift.
• Saying thank you acknowledges our dependence on others. No man is an island.
• We should appreciate the act of giving and the time it took to think of the gift, buy it and wrap it.
• It is important to recognize the time it took, especially because we are a time deprived society.
• We acknowledge our relationship with the giver. It’s a simple sign of respect.
• If we do not express gratitude, our relationship might change because we show we don’t care about the other person.
• People give gifts because they are looking for recognition, respect and affection.
• If we are not thanked, we worry our gift was meaningless. By demeaning the gift, we demean the giver.
• By undermining the code of conduct, we belittle the worth of others. What we are saying is: I don’t have to thank you because you mean nothing to me.
• It is contagious. If you do something nice for someone, they will do something nice for someone else.
• If we start chipping away at gratitude and common courtesy, life becomes very unpleasant.
What are some traditional displays of gratitude?
• A simple verbal thank you
• A written note for a gift, help, sharing time, hospitality, and invitations
• Flowers
• Chocolates
• Telephone call or e- mail
• Simple gift
• Gift of time: babysitting, car wash
• Rituals of gratitude and social skills serve as moorings – they provide security and structure.
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