Unexpected gifts

Life at work recently has been, shall we say, a bit busy.  I have spent long hours these last few weeks doing pieces of my job that are not my favorite pieces.  Like any work there are parts that are fulfilling and other parts that are simply necessary.   Many necessary pieces have presented themselves in the last month.  
  Each day my day begins with the mail sitting on my desk.  Usually the stack consists of magazines, announcements and catalogues of resources.  Today there was a hand addressed envelope in the pile, always a pleasant surprise.  Curious I looked at the return address and did not recognize it.   Taking the letter opener from my drawer, I carefully opened it.  Inside was a lovely card with a personal message inscribed on the inside.  It was from a family whose mother died recently.  I was the one who presided at the funeral. They wanted to say thank you. Over the years I have been blessed with cards of appreciation.   I save them and when I wonder about why I do what I do, I pull them out and read them. Those words pull me out the "necessary" pit of work and remind me of what I love about my job.  People tell me the stories of their lives and allow me to walk with them through some of their most difficult times. It is an honour and  a privilege.
    In these days of busyness, we often forget to say thank you.  It takes such a little effort and makes such a big difference.  I am reminded again I need up my  daily "thank yous" to the people with whom I live and work.  Oh, by the way,  thank you for reading this blog!