Growing up I never quite understood why my parents would
reprimand me if I just accept a gift without thanking the person who had given
me the gift. It did not stop there, I was supposed to thank whoever had
prepared and served me with food irrespective of whether it’s their job or not.
To me it was just something that I had to do; I never gave it much thought.
The Experience
During my internship
at Midlands State University I was the system administrator of the computer laboratory, Hellenics Hall- the biggest
at the university. The lab was located off-campus- to be specific in the CBD of Gweru City.
Besides me and my supervisor, the laboratory had also
non-technical staff, security and janitors. These non-technical staff were supposed to report to my
supervisor and sometimes they would have to
report to me if the supervisor is unavailable.
These people worked really hard and of the time I worked
with them I appreciated the work they did and always thanked them whenever they
cleaned my office or anything they are supposed to do as per their duties.
Because I treated them with respect and show gratitude for
anything they did for me; these people became my friends. During that time things wre really hard, the
economy was bad, but most of them would buy me lunch. They would also give me
advice and share interesting stories. I really enjoyed my internship because of
the people.
When my internship ended; I was back to being a student
again at the university. Whenever I
wanted to use the laboratory- even at odd hours, the security would still let
me through. Even during the times when students where not allowed, they would
still let me through. After I graduated from the university I continued using
the university resources at will. During that time, I never really thought
about why they were nice to me but it’s clear to me now.
The Lessons
Looking back now I understand the importance of showing
gratitude and the valuable lesson my parents taught me. For every effort we
make as human beings for others we sub-consciously feel the need to be thanked
or acknowledged for our efforts. While the cook, maid, janitor e.t.c, may not
show their feelings they still need to be appreciated for their efforts even
though they are paid for the services.
I have since realized showing others gratitude helps you
become a better person and will help you in developing relationship with
others. People like to be around a person who acknowledges what others do for
him/her or just their friendship.
The act of showing gratitude also makes you humble and less
selfish. This helps you become a more rounded person who approach life with
humility which may help you make better decisions without many illusions about
how much better you are than what you really is.
Showing gratitude also makes you learn to appreciate the
little things in life. You learn to appreciate the fact that you are still
breathing, you have a roof over your head, good health, loving family, a good
job etc. Appreciating these seemingly little things improves the chances of
your happiness as you realize how blessed you are to have those things in life.
Making another person smile has got an effect of making you
feel good and happy. Appreciating other people’s efforts has just got that
effect. The funny thing is that sometimes it does not cost anything other than
putting on a smile and a warm “thank you”.
Conclusion
Showing gratitude just does not strengthen your character,
making you a better friend, workmate or anything. If you are business it strengthens
your brand and increase customer loyalty which may lead to increased sales and
a successful business. Expressing gratitude should be a habit as it makes us
better people and businesses in life.
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