The intention behind this social edict, “thank you,” is to safeguard us from becoming self-centered creatures who feel entitled to things without acknowledging others’ kindness.
Fair enough. But now as adults, does our “thank you” operate on automatic pilot, thereby rending it empty and meaningless? Does it keep people distant or invite contact?
Receiving
Sure, it nicer to hear “thanks” over “you shouldn’t have done it,” or to be unacknowledged. But to what extent are we really being received and appreciated when people thank us for something? Or have these words become so habitual that it actually blocks the connection that’s possible when our giving is received with an open heart?