Valley Voice December 2016 | Page 40

Tis the season to
experience and
connect the value of others. It is also a time to recognize our own value to those in our lives. Appreciation in action is to behave with gratitude. The challenge can arise however when we fail to see that every person is different, and because of this, each person experiences and expresses gratitude in their own special way.

In this season of giving and thanks take time to understand someone’s brand of appreciation. And to discover your own as well. Sharing gratitude creates feelings of inspiration, positive energy, and empowerment.This is because gratitude and appreciation is as exciting as opening a gift from a loved one. Here are just a few ways to share gratitude with others this season.

1. A very simple way to express appreciation is to create space for others to feel important and valued. Look at your list of family and friends. There are certainly a few who are well known for being abundantly giving and helpful. We may forget that sometimes those who always go the extra mile for others also seek to feel loved and appreciated. Let this person know how they change your world. We all deserve happiness, share that with another, especially with those who are often sharing such joy with everyone.

2. Communicate your needs and ask others to do the same. Families who take the time to create a list of ways to support