Cleaning the garage today I stumbled on a thank you note from my daughter in law from August 2012. My son and d-i-l had moved from Southern California to Fort Collins, Colorado and I drove the U-Haul. So she wrote the following kindness:
Dear Parent of the year (don’t you dare tell Kelly!):
Thank you ad infinitum for driving 1,062 miles in 18 hours only to sleep on the floor and carry everything we own up some rickety old stairs! I assure you that you were never really “the third wheel” – that your presence, conversation, insight, and support were welcomed and treasured. We are so fortunate to have you in our lives, and are thankful for the many blessings you have & continue to bestow upon us.
Love,
Levi & Kristin
I have to say that in light of the last few months of my life this was a treasure to discover, dusty and dated (well not so dated, but it sounds good). I haven’t felt the part lately – those who know, know – and this gave me hope that I am not the jerk I feel like I am today.
So make sure you say thank you, I love you, you are special, and all sorts of other kindnesses. It pays dividends even into the future.