Appreciation–recognition and enjoyment of the good qualities of someone or something.

Do you show appreciation to people? Do you take it to the level of gratitude? This weekend was incredible for me. We had two big events at CGB and drove the Hillbilly Hilton in the homecoming parade. We also spent time with great friends and some extended family. It was a celebration of community and I had the extreme privilege of hosting it.

Many people expressed appreciation and gratitude for creating a community that is so easy to become part of. And isn’t that how it should be? Great community should be easy. Not always perfect, but easy. You shouldn’t have to work hard to simply belong.

I think the way that it forms and is easy starts with the leadership. Is the leader “burdened” with building the community or are they privileged to do it? That simple mindset shift is critical. I feel privileged. I appreciate the contributions of each member of my community–big and small. I am grateful for the diversity of thought and experience within my community. AND I try my hardest to express both the appreciation and gratitude. 

What communities are you  part of ? How do you express appreciation and gratitude? Could you do it more? Are you in need of a community? Spoiler alert, all people need some form of community. If you do, let me know. I can help you plug in.