"I Don't Know How To Thank You"
No, I mean that.
A lot of the kids we work with don’t know how to say, “Thank You”.
When you’re busy weaving a safe cocoon of toughness, it often happens that the mask that keeps feelings hidden also keeps gratitude from showing. It doesn’t seem safe to show appreciation. It’s too much like trust.
As with other feelings, a child can learn to show thanks. Thankfulness is not innate and it is best learned by example. As a mentor, you deserve thanks for all you do, but those “magic words” can be slow coming.
Please be patient.
If you wonder if the child likes you to be there, ask them. As threatening as that seems to adults, it is often reassuring to a child. They see that you care about the relationship. It shows your trust in them.
You are a tremendous example to these youth. As they watch you and learn from you, their actions will soon reflect a living gratitude. They will learn to imitate that which they trust and emulate the one they look up to.
We want to thank you for giving of yourself in such a selfless way. Thank you for being someone to look up to. We hope that in time you will hear what an impact you are making.
Until then, Please know you ARE making a difference.
"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget |
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"I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought,
and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder." |
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