Unique and creative ways to say thank you and convey appreciation
Some days it may seem like the whole world is full of rude and insensitive people. You watch the news and see stories about crime and random acts of violence every time you turn on the TV. It is enough to make people very cynical, and then out of nowhere, someone surprises you with a very kind act. With the the state the world seems to be in, these acts of kindness and humanity should never be taken for granted.
Showing appreciation is one of the basic forms of respect and should be taken seriously. If someone has done something really nice for you and you are looking for a creative way to show your appreciation, theseideasmay help you out:
Make something truly special, put some time and effort into making the perfect treat for the person. A simple cake mix will not cut it here. For example: bake their favorite type of cookie and shape the cookies to look like letters that spell out "Thank you", or "Much appreciated" or something similar. Even if you are not a culinary genius, making homemade treats can really mean something to people.
Take a picture of yourself showing gratitude such as holding a hand painted sign that says "Thank you" in big bold letters, and then email it to the person or give it to them in a card. The point is that they may get a chuckle out of it or just be able to look at it and know you are thinking of their kind deed towards you. You can go one step further and get a card that allows you to record a personal message. This way, every time they open the card, they here your voice and can look at the picture.
It can be fairly easy to simply say "Thank you" to someone who has been kind to you. It can end up being a little more difficult actually repaying that kindness. Offer to mow their lawn or pick up their groceries for them. Do something that will really mean something to the person. Boxes of candy and store bought flowers are a nice gesture, but some people do not really need or want those things. Helping them paint their garage or shampoo their carpets is a true act of gratitude. These are the kinds of things most people do, but not because they enjoy it, they do it because it is necessary. By helping someone with chores that are not fun, you are showing you are willing to help them when they are in need as well.
This is a fun idea that can make people smile. Get a large piece of poster board or construction paper, glue decorations like stars, trophies, and other items that are indicative of winning an award to the paper. Have the person pose for a picture holding a novelty trophy (you can pick these up at novelty stores in malls or online) and place the picture in the center of the poster. Write up a newspaper style article telling all about the kindness of the person and put it under the photo. You can add accents like blue ribbons and mini certificates. Find a picture frame large enough to hold the poster, and carefully put the poster in it. Then have a little ceremony with friends and family, or just the two of you, and present the person with the tribute.
It can be a humbling moment when someone helps you out in a time of need. Use that deep feeling of gratitude to do something really special to show that person you have not taken them for granted. Always remember that people do not have to help you out, so when they do, they should be celebrated in some pleasant way.
