“Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.”- Ralph Waldo Emerson
I was looking through my Bible the other day and noticed that every precious piece of paper I’d saved and placed inside had something to do with gratitude. I found personal handwritten notes from my two daughters and a beautiful card filled with messages from previous co-workers with each of them expressing gratitude for our time working and serving together. My heart was once again warmed as I read and re-read these sweet expressions and others. I’m so glad I kept them!
When I was an elementary school principal, I made each one of my teachers a special file folder called their HABDF. It was for them to keep every note or expression of kindness and/or gratitude they received from a parent, a child, a family member, or anyone else. I made one for myself, as well.
HABDF stands for “Had A Bad Day File”. The contents inside were to be read on just such a day; when things hadn’t gone so well!! I went back and read through that file many times—and was very happy to remember those tender expressions of gratitude and love. Each time, my spirits were lifted! I included birthday cards (what else do you do with them?), as well as other cards and notes. What a treasure trove filled with gratitude! I know my teachers appreciated them, also. Many of them told me they put notes from me inside their HABDF files! On a bad day, reading those expressions of love and gratitude always lifted spirits.
When we send a note of gratitude, I’m not sure we realize the impact it may have on the recipient. Saying thank you is so easy and expressing it verbally is one thing, but when we write a note of thanks, it can last forever and be read and re-read many times. What a gift!
I’d encourage you to make yourself and other family members an HABDF file and start keeping those special notes and cards. You never know when you might need to read them! And don’t hesitate to express your gratitude to others with a written note.
“For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.” – Ephesians 1:15–16
Full disclosure-I wish I’d thought of the HABDF idea, but I copied it. You can find out more on Pinterest or Facebook.
– Susan Meharg, Executive Assistant to Senior Pastor and Senior Executive Pastor
