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Thank Yous

2010 March 3
by Stanley Quan

As I was walking home in a downpour today, a stranger stopped me and asked me for directions. I gladly pointed her in the right way and then we parted ways. But she didn’t say “thank you” or show any bit of  gratitude, and that kind of irked me a little bit.

I know I shouldn’t expect to get a “thank you,” but it caught me by surprise. Instead of getting that warm feeling inside from helping her, I thought about how she didn’t appreciate what I did. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t help others to collect “thank yous” or for recognition, but it would have made the whole interaction much better if those two simple words were exchanged.

A contrast to this situation happened about three blocks prior. I gave someone a thank you card for her and her organization’s help in supporting Cal Do Something’s Jeans for Haiti Drive. She was so happy to receive the card and even thanked me for giving her the opportunity to help. This interaction left both parties with a smile and makes me want to work with her again in the future.

A simple “thank you” can go a  long way, from both sides.

Don’t forget to say your “thank yous,” because people do notice.

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