Thank you notes

I have recently been reminded of the power that a simple thank you holds. When you think about it, a thank you note is a simple enough idea - let someone else know that you appreciate them. I don't know about you, but a lot of times I am terrible at writing thank you notes. (In fact, I have several that I need to write tonight.) It doesn't mean that my gratitude is any less, but... and that is where everything falls apart. If I don't express my gratitude to the person who has been a positive influence in my life or who has done something nice for me or gone out of their way to help me, then how do they know how much I appreciate it? See the problem?

And I am pretty confident that many of you face the same problem. So, I want to remind you of the importance of thank you notes. They do not have to be long or flowery - simply thank the person who has helped you. This is especially important for individuals or organizations who have provided you with college scholarships.  Additionally, if you haven't thanked your teachers who wrote recommendation letters for you, perhaps now, as you finish your high school journey, is the perfect time.  Many people do not realize the time and effort it takes to write a good recommendation letter. Thank them for their help and support in your college application process. Let them know where you ended up being offered admission and where you have decided to attend and make sure that they know how much you appreciate their help along the way. It won't take you a long time, but it will certainly mean a lot to them.

Before I close this post, I want to be very clear - I am NOT talking about writing to me! I do NOT need nor am I in any way hinting, asking for, or needing you to write a thank you note to me! I just figured we could all use a reminder in the importance of writing thank you notes and expressing our gratitude for those around us.