A word of thanks, a little recognition
Many times I have shared that it is the little things, the things that you may see as insignificant, that affect people’s lives in ways you cannot imagine. These last two days, I had the opportunity to witness, recognize, and say thanks for a few of those little things. Little things that not only directly impacted me, but so many others. “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness” (Colossians 2:6, NIV). This week, I am overflowing with thankfulness for these amazing people that God has put in my life. People that are selfless and not self serving. People who live faithful lives that in turn enable them to encourage others. People who have built their foundation in our Father, overcoming all the storms thrown at them by trusting God. So today, I want to give a word of thanks, and a little recognition.
This week I had the unique pleasure of recognizing a fellow employee in my civilian job. Her tasks may seem simple. She took care of leaves of absence and military leaves. That’s where our lives crossed each other’s paths. She helped me countless times with the little nuances of time keeping and maneuvering through the often complicated world of military leave. She was always responsive, always took the time to explain things to me, and would go above and beyond researching things that I didn’t even know were issues simply because that is who she is. It’s the little things. I would send emails saying thank you each time she would assist, but I wanted to do something special and an organization called Employer Support of the Guard and Reserves gave me the opportunity to nominate her for the coveted Seven Seals Award. It is a way we can recognize an organization or person for going above and beyond in service to our military…that is what she did. She didn’t know that her “research” expanded the way our National Guard identifies members to participate in our State Partnership Program with countries overseas. Her research helped us expand the opportunity since it did not take away from the authorized military training days that many company’s offer. She helped me and countless others time and again often with short turn around times and under stressful conditions while preparing for mobilizations. She did all of this, and never asked for a word of thanks-that is selfless service. I am thankful that our paths crossed and that, for a time, I got to live in her circle and see the heart and commitment that she shared with others. Happy retirement-well earned!
Hard to follow that day, that moment of reocgnition, then tonight happened. Tonight, a group of our neighborhood ladies, our original group, came together to celebrate my recent promotion in the military. Although some have since moved, we stay connected. I put on a new dress that I had been waiting to wear for the perfect occassion. One of the husbands drove us and we had an amazing dinner. When we come together, it is as if no time passes. It is a trusted space, a safe space. Each of us have our own trials, tribulations, need for prayers-but we also have our praises and thankfulness. It always happens naturally when we come together, as the night goes on, we share our deepest troubles and heartaches, we pray for each other, we lift each other up, and we encourage each other to remain faithful and trust in God. Laughter is always present, a tear or two may be shed, and hugs are always held a little longer as the evening comes to an end. It’s these friends that I can send a text to and just say I need prayer-no explanation needed, and they pray. This same group of women come together when one of us received heartbreaking news of a child knowing the journey ahead is difficult and immediately prayed, put a care package together and reminded her that she is not alone. Did I mention they have their own “stuff”? Their strength amazes me, their faith inspires me, and their compassion encourages me. So, today, I am giving a word of thanks from the introvert who didn’t want to come out and play-I am so thankful I did.
Today, I pray that you take a moment to give a little recognition to the people who may be behind the scenes, the ones that are always there when needed never seeking recognition. I pray that you strive to be that for others and share the unique peace and strength we have in our faith.
I pray these words speak to you and you share with a friend. Don’t miss a blog post, subscribe to my web page.
