On an early morning this fall, I had to return some almost 
overdue library books. I was avoiding the fines by returning my checkouts before the library opened. The parking lot was empty and I am always a little wary of isolated areas. I was relieved to see ahead of me an officer of the law also making his book returns. Though he was plain-clothed, I knew by the guns and handcuffs on his belt that he was in some kind of law enforcement.
As I approached the book deposit slot, the guy noticed my large stack of books and he turned back to hold the box door open for me. I thanked him and as we both walked away, finished with our library errands, I offered a simple, “Thank you for what you do.” This has, after all, been a tough year for policemen.
He smiled and in a thick Long Island accent returned with, “Thank you for what YOU do.” I was happy to tell him that I teach at the local elementary school. He told me that his three children had attended there. By then, we were both nearing our cars and we parted ways. As I drove on to work, I felt cheered by both acknowledging his contribution to the community, and by the validation that my work also contributed positively to the neighborhood.
We choose our words. Words of thankfulness and gratitude hearten both the speaker and the recipient. In his book The Law of Happiness,* Dr. Henry Cloud describes 12 behaviors proven to benefit mental health; giving thanks is one of them. So cheer yourself and someone else: say “thank you.” In everything give thanks, for this is God’s will for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
*In addition to The Law of Happiness, I recommend Radical Gratitude by my childhood friend, Ellen Vaughn.
