Giving Thanks

You may recall a recent cleaning expedition that resulted in my cherished memories being whittled down from eleven boxes to five.

Yes, much of it made it into the recylcing bin (where appropriate) or the dumpster. Some was carefully repacked into storage boxes. And some of it has made the journey to my study at shul. Like a set of shtetl dolls that my grandmother gave to me. And the little Torah I received at Consecration. I also found a lengthy reply from Senator Alan Cranston z”l (CA-D) responding to a letter that I must have sent to him during the first Lebanon War.

I have always written letters to people I have never met. Sometimes it is for a major cause. Like the letters I used to write to President Carter on behalf of Soviet refusniks. More recently, I write a letter to the author of a book or essay that I have enjoyed. That has given me something new to consider. Or to rethink a position to which I stubbornly cling.

I do it all the time. And you know what? The recipient always replies with a grateful response.

I can’t thank you enough for your kind words about my essay… You’ve reminded me to do the same when I read something that speaks to me.

or

Thank you so much for letting me know that my research was useful in this effort. You were so kind to take the time to let me know…Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you!

It is easy to criticize. But does it really take any more time to praise?

Look what is happening over at Juggling Frogs. A monthly opportunity to show appreciation to others. (Thanks to Nad-Ned Nad-Ned for spreading the good word!)