10 Ways to Show Loved Ones You Appreciate Them This Thanksgiving Season
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Every Thanksgiving we’re bombarded with reminders to “be grateful” and understand how much we are blessed. It almost sounds cliché, the concept of thankfulness, but we all know it’s not. For all people and especially for Christians, it is so important to foster an attitude of gratitude and appreciation for the blessings in your life, whether that is breath in your lungs, the roof above your head, or the people surrounding you.
As Jesus says in Matthew 7:12, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.”
Believe it or not, this one can be fun. When my friend got sick with an autoimmune issue and needed to alter her diet, she had no idea how to cook some of these dishes, nor did she have the energy. So I came over and cooked for her. It was a lot of work, but we had a great time hanging out, and I was able to bless her with something she really needed in appreciation for her friendship. You might help your non-tech-savvy family member set up their new computer, or help your brother host a garage sale or clean up his yard.
As we’re told in Galatians 6:2, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
I’m not a natural gift-giver. I’m pretty frugal, and while I love browsing boutiques, you’ll rarely see me buy myself anything. But a thoughtful gift can express tremendous gratitude.
If you’re out and see something that truly reminds you of a loved one—like that pair of Bigfoot socks I saw at a tourist shop in the mountains that reminded me of my close friend—why not surprise yourself (and them!) with it? It’s a small way to show lots of love.
As Proverbs 18:16 says, “A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great.”
Usually, it’s not too tough to double or even triple a recipe. So the next time you find yourself baking, whether that’s bread or cookies, think about who in your life might be blessed by a sweet treat. If you’re making banana bread, why not bake an extra for your coworker or neighbor? How about a plate of cookies for your sister or a favorite dessert for your spouse? Taking the time to do this is a gesture of love, care, and appreciation.
If your loved one hates going to the doctor or dentist, offer to drive her. If your friend is having trouble waking up early to go running, lace up your sneakers and join him. Recently my mom wanted to try out a new church that has more traditional liturgical elements, but she didn’t want to go alone. So even though I have my own church, I went with her one Sunday, and now she feels comfortable enough to go on her own.
Sometimes, life is easier when someone is walking beside you.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”
Stretch yourself as you think of ways to show gratitude for those in your life. As much as your loved one will appreciate your gesture, you’ll find yourself just as blessed by your effort to express your appreciation.
More from this author
10 Prayers to Turn Your Heart Towards Thankfulness This Season
Seven Things Jesus and His Disciples Taught Us about Giving Thanks
9 Ways Becoming a Mom Has Changed Me from a Faith Perspective
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