Today’s prompt for JusJoJan is Gratitude. Thank you Sadjie for this word.

It is so easy to go through life taking things for granted. It seems that the more fortunate we are the less grateful we are for what we have. I have so often heard people say, “I got to where I am by myself through sheer hard work.” And although this might be true it wouldn’t hurt to show some gratitude for the opportunities that presented themselves or the people who helped make things happen along the way. I don’t believe we can take credit for everything we have achieved or obtained in our lives. Of course, it is important to be self-reliant but I have yet to meet a happy person who has not shown some gratitude to others for helping them along their way.

I also believe it is very important to express gratitude to people who provide services for us. Are we grateful to our employees? Do we thank the petrol jockey for filling up our vehicles and washing our windscreens? Yes, they get paid for it but does it hurt to just say thank you? 

My greatest joy was when my grandson thanked me for the part I played in his life. I did not expect gratitude nor even thought about it but when he expressed it so eloquently in his own words it was better than receiving a diamond ring! 

In my experience showing gratitude to a shop assistant, a cashier, grumpy passport control guy makes all the difference to the service you will receive. While waiting in a queue to check in at a game reserve rest camp, I have seen people with long faces become irritated that they have to wait to be processed. This causes stress to the poor receptionists too. How much better to greet the overworked soul with a “Good Afternoon, Boy am I glad to be here in this beautiful park at last. I’ve looked forward to this all year.” Immediately you will get a smile back and cheerful service as they process you. The trick is to think of the other person first. What kind of day is he/she having. Of course, they should leave their problems at home but we’re all human. Let’s be kind to each other, treat each other with tolerance and thank those who serve us with a smile and friendly word. 

Gratitude is good for your health and your soul.