Lately, I’ve been on both the organizing and appreciating end of a few events here on our busy, creative, sharing Orcas Island. Being sensitive to the level of time as well as mental and physical effort that goes into preparing for any public offering, whether it be a lecture, a concert, or a well-prepared dish at your favorite restaurant, I’d like to offer a way for us to express our gratitude to those who offer these gems to us.

To me, “gratitude” conveys a much deeper feeling than the “thanks” or “thank you’s” we hear so often. When I feel grateful to someone or about something, I actually feel an expanding in my heart space. It may be similar to a feeling of love toward another person, or animal, or the amazing feeling one gets when really connecting with the natural space around us.

We, as humans are not very good at sensing these feelings that come from another person. To write a “thank you” email doesn’t always do it, but it at least tells the person or persons how you feel. Connecting in person is best, particularly if your sense of appreciation is strong. And know that even professionals like to be acknowledged for what they do. I have a lot of people to talk to and calls to make!

Margot Shaw

Eastsound