Gratitude

Gratitude is something that is amazing to me. I think that many of us go through life- barley making it and then someone shows just a little bit of gratitude and it seems to give you enough stamina to go on! This happened to me today.

There are times in my job when I really wonder if I am making a difference and if I really should be doing what I am. Then 2 really special things happened.



#1- One little 3 yr old that basically lives at the hospital is often times left alone. We've had some good bonding times during this past admission. Today she woke up from her nap, saw me in the hall and just booked it toward me. She threw her arms around me and said "My Jill!"



#2 I have been working with a 9 yr old that has had pretty serious procedures within the last few days. They have been painful, but he has done AMAZING! Today when I went in to see him, I noticed some beautiful flowers in his room. Of course I had to comment on which one of his girlfriends sent it to him (I'm kinda a pest sometimes!) His mom wasn't there this time- just his dad. When I returned a few minutes later with some activities, his dad was on the phone. Speaking Spanish- I'm sure assuming that I didn't understand- He was saying "No- you talk to her. You tell her." Then he handed to phone to me and it was the mom. She proceeded to tell me that she works in a floral shop and had made them especially for me to say thank you. Honestly I was SHOCKED! Things like that don't usually happen to me. I mean look how beautiful they are- and look at that great vase:

Both very different experiences...one seemingly larger than the other, but both warmed my heart. It really made me realize how important it is for us to show our gratitude for people. I had no idea that I had really helped that little boy and his family so much.

This is what I learned from these experiences today. The family felt thankful and they DID something about it. How many times do I feel thankful for something, but keep it to myself. People need to know and feel it. And the little girl just simply made me feel thanked by what she said to me and by her actions!

It made me realize again the importance of saying thank you. It doesn't even have to be with something expensive. You never know if someone is struggling and how much you can bless and help them by using those two powerful words.