Take action. Choose a few people each week to thank.
As Meister Eckhart says: “If the only prayer you ever say is ‘thank you,’ it will be enough.”
Thanksgiving is tomorrow and I find myself reflecting on something I have thought about and written about many times before: the countless efforts it takes to keep a school alive. The sheer amount of people power required to open the doors, illuminate the classrooms, power up the technology, learn each student’s name, support the faculty, teach the classes, and coach the teams is nothing short of awe-inspiring. I am constantly reminded of the extraordinary dedication that permeates our schools.
It is a wonder that everything runs as smoothly and effectively as it does, day in and day out.
In the often crazy pace of school life, it is so easy to overlook the importance of expressing gratitude. Yet, as educational leaders, taking the time to acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of those around us is essential.
So I am once again asking you to make it a priority to set aside time each week to do something profoundly important: share thanks, liberally.
Imagine dedicating even a small portion of our week to thank those who contribute to our schools. While a full day might be ideal and still insufficient to acknowledge everyone adequately, starting with small, meaningful gestures can have a significant impact.
Think about all the individuals who make our work possible: the maintenance staff who ensure our environments are clean and safe, the administrative staff who keep everything running smoothly, the teachers who inspire and educate, the parents who volunteer their time, the coaches and counselors who spend so much time with our students, and the students themselves who bring our schools to life.
Then, take action. Choose a few people each week to thank. Praise them in meetings, send them an email, write a heartfelt note, or offer a small token of appreciation. A simple card or word of thanks to a custodian, a volunteer parent, a new teacher, or a long-term substitute can transform someone’s day and outlook.
The power of an unexpected thank you cannot be underestimated. Think back to a time when you received a note of gratitude out of the blue. Remember how it made you feel valued and appreciated. Your gratitude can have that same effect on others.
As we approach Thanksgiving, let us commit to making gratitude a higher priority in our schools. This is a perfect time to start this practice. Our awareness of being thankful is very high in late November!
Happy Thanksgiving to you all!