I have given up on Christmas cards. Oh, I have the best intentions, but it seems some time warp exists in the first days of November, and the next thing I know, it is late January.
I am not beating myself up because I accomplish navigating five birthdays and a big holiday for my immediate family of 17 in that time warp.
That’s why I love Valentine’s. I feel like I can pay attention to my friends and family without the same pressure of Christmas. Valentine’s also aligns with a month-long sabbatical I take. This month gives me the time to focus on sending love and appreciation to those who serve with me on teams.
When I send Valentine’s, I think of a particular truth that God has been speaking to me. I share an appreciation for something specific about the person receiving my note. This small act refreshes my thanks for the student and family work we do together.
I am pretty excited to find a super simple template for next year. The template comes from Gina Hamadey – author of I Want to Thank You. It is so good it is worth passing on like any good gift.
Dear (insert name or cute nickname)
There are countless things I love about you—here are three that come directly to mind.
1. Your ____________.
2. Your ____________.
3. And the way you always ___________.
More than anything, I love how you make me feel, which is_________________.
Love,
I can do this. You can do this, and we don’t have to wait until next year’s Valentine’s.
The point is whether it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, Valentine’s, or any ordinary day of the year. Nothing is so life-giving as letting the people both in and outside of your family know the ways you so appreciate the love and care they lavish on you and others.
Oh, and the Christmas card thing? Well, it isn’t quite the same, but you can get your Gunther family update here.