“Please” and “Thank You”: It’s Not Just For Kindergarten Anymore

One of the first skills we learn in school is speaking to one another with common courtesy. We learn to say “please” and “thank you” and may be denied our requests if we do not use proper manners. Some seem to forget these are life skills that allow us to demonstrate gratitude and manners in our personal and professional life. In fact, a person who does not demonstrate manners may seem ungrateful and it could hurt relationships between a husband and wife, parents and kids, and associations in the workplace.

Philippians 2:1-5 tells us to have the mind of Christ which esteems others better than self and demonstrates it in word and deed. If we do a kindness for others we would expect them to express their gratitude. Therefore, following the principle Jesus taught in Luke 6:31, we should express thankfulness to others.

I am sometimes surprised when I witness an act of kindness for a young person (or older person but this is not Godly Old People, it’s Godly Youth) and they don’t even acknowledge it. Even worse is when someone makes a sacrifice, goes out of their way, spends money, or changes plans to help someone and there is no simple “thank you.”

Be aware of what others are doing for you and express your gratitude. Don’t mumble it–they stepped out to help you, speak up to thank them. Consider some of the following situations where you have opportunities to express gratitude:

Someone…

  • gives you a ride home or to an event
  • pays your admission to an event or buys your food
  • invites you to join in an activity
  • hosts a Bible class or other event for young people in their home (thank the homeowners personally)
  • organizes a gathering or activity for young people
  • gives you a compliment on something you have done
  • calls to check on you when you are sick or going through a tough time
  • takes time for you for any reason
  • gives you a present or money
  • teaches you something important
  • gives you an opportunity, chance, or job

Can you think of other opportunities to show gratitude that young people may overlook? Leave them in the comments!

Author: Rhodes Davis

My passion is analyzing information, exploring ideas, lifelong learning and sharing knowledge with others. I have a wide range of interests and am not easily bored so I approach unfamiliar and diverse subjects with great zeal. I am a business nerd, fascinated by what can be accomplished through innovative companies and people who want to change the world. My faith is very important and I enjoy opportunities to share my observations and study insights through teaching and writing. I follow the simple teachings of Jesus and try to reflect His glory in my life. I work with young people on applying the teachings of Jesus to their unique challenges and opportunities. "Curiosity keeps taking us down new paths." - Walt Disney

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