“Thus the children of Israel did not
remember the Lord their God, who had delivered them from the hands of all their
enemies on every side; neither did they show kindness to the house of
Jerubaal (Gideon) in accordance with the good he had done for Israel”. Judges 8:34-35.New King James
Version.
Although
Gideon had risked his life as he fought for the children of Israel against the
Midianites, his seventy sons save one were killed by his beneficiaries when he
died in a conspiracy(Judges 9). But it is interesting to note that the Bible
first records that it was because they did not show gratitude to God that they
were unable to show gratitude to Gideon. Relationships thrive better where
gratitude is present. Our gratitude to God serves as a platform from which we
can show gratitude to people. We may do this so well to strangers but the truly
courteous person is the person who is courteous at home.
Most of us
first learn how to express gratitude in our homes when we start learning how to
use the magic words. As we grew older, the grunts of adolescence slipped into adulthood
and often we find ourselves bereft of showing gratitude to the people who
matter the most. It is necessary then to retrace our steps as we may
inadvertently be taking our family members for granted. Children should be
taught to express thanks at home, for meals, chauffeur and laundry services to
mention a few. As models, we should also show gratitude to children and allow
them see us expressing gratitude to our own parents.
Gratitude to
our elderly parents can be expressed by inquiring after their welfare
regularly. We should give to them regularly commensurate to our income rather
than using the fire brigade approach. Neither should we equate these material
gifts with our presence. It is foolishness to suddenly have enough time and
money for a burial ceremony when they are no longer around. Many of such
ostentatious ceremonies have been driven more by guilt than care.
Our friends should
also be shown gratitude. Calling them only when we need a favour might be an indication
that they are being taken for granted. On a regular basis, we should let our
friends know that we appreciate their friendship. Helping them to achieve some
of their goals while celebrating their achievements is also showing gratitude.
Our ability
to show gratitude to God is a prerequisite for showing gratitude to others.
Gratitude is not only a preserver but an enhancer of relationships. The benefits are immeasurable and
saying “Thank
you” daily can be a
catalyst for improved relationships.
Remain
Grateful,
Grace
Tom-lawyer
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