By Charles Towne
It was William James, the noted psychologist, and philosopher that said this:
“The deepest principle in human nature is the craving to be appreciated.”
Yes, The genuine appreciation of others is likely the most valuable character trait a true leader can possess.
But then, of course, it is not humanly possible to give something that you do not have. It's like going to the spring for a cool drink of water only to discover that the spring has dried up, like in, no water, and all that remains is mud!
We have all met those most wretched, most miserable of people who seem, upon entering a room, to suck out the air like they were a black hole, or perhaps they seemed to throw a wet blanket over the party.
I am sure these poor souls do not intend to do this, but the results are the same. So what is to be done?
Perhaps it is a personality issue. But if it is it can be changed. Yes, that is correct, personality can be changed, for, after all, personality is a habit, yes, a habit ingrained, but a habit nonetheless.
Think of it, we have all met those unique souls that seem to spread sunshine wherever they go. Their very presence blesses all with a sweet and comfortable special something where everyone is more relaxed and comfortable because of that presence. Wow!
Denise is one of those rare souls I speak of. Wise beyond her years. When you are with her you know she is listening, and that in its own right is such a gift, a part of communication that to a great extent has been lost in our society in these busy times.
When blessed by one of these special souls, you walk away knowing that you have been blessed, yes, you are a better person because of the encounter!
How do people feel when they leave your presence?
Do they feel valued?
Do they feel that they are appreciated?
Yes, that is the question. Do you give that gift of appreciation to others so they desire your presence?
When I was a little boy during those cold damp Illinois winters my mama would drape a heavy quilt over a chair and set it near the wood-burning heating stove and when that quilt was toasty warm I would run ahead of her and jump into bed and she would smile as she covered me and tucked that quilt around me.
Did I appreciate my mama? Oh yes! I still do these many years later!
I would go to sleep knowing that I was loved.
Wow, what a gift!
Let it be said of each of us that we are like toasty warm comforters on cold winter nights.
Encouragement and praise are essential to our well-being, don’t you think?
It might well be said that appreciation is oxygen to the soul, and the human spirit cannot live long without it!
Dear Papa God, let it be said of each of us that we always introduce love and warmth, and appreciation into our relationships. Please, Father, bless me with the gift of your great and perfect love. Pour your perfect love over me and around me so that others can feel the heat of your love. I love you Papa God, in Jesus' wonderful name I ask it, Amen.
Charles Towne is first and foremost a Christian. An octogenarian, author, journalist, wildlife photographer, naturalist, caregiver, and survivor, his life has been and continues to be, a never-ending adventure filled with possibilities never imagined. He has adopted the philosophy that to Live fully, laugh uproariously, love passionately, and learn like there is no tomorrow, is a formula for a long and joy-filled life.
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