Tag: appreciation

Posted in gratitude

They gave him a plaque.

Posted on by William Douthwaite

The thought was nice. They wanted to show their appreciation for nearly two decades of faithful volunteer service.

So they gave him a plaque.

Who came up with the idea of giving a plaque? The history of plaques is interesting. They date back to the fourteenth century to commemorate important people who served the Benin empire (modern day Nigeria). Memorial plaques were set in church walls and tombs in the Middle ages. Modern day plaques often mark places of historical events and remember those who died in military service. Your name might appear on an “employee of the month” plaque. Or as of your class in high school.

Chances are you’ve received a plaque for an accomplishment, for perfect attendance, volunteer service, or a generous donation. Did you hang yours on a wall? I’ve been in offices where plaques and framed certificates covered the walls. But I’ve also seen plaques piled in boxes along with old trophies at a yard sale.

I received a plaque for being a board member of a service organization in New England. I didn’t do much more than attend some meetings. But this thank you plaque was affixed to a wooden framed clock that sat on my bookshelf for many years. I positioned it so I could glance at it during meetings in my office rather than rudely looking at my watch. I appreciated that plaque.

My daughter received a plaque for a summer internship at a small concert venue where she went above and beyond expectations. On the back of the plaque was a lifetime admission ticket. Now that’s a great plaque!

I guess I’m not a huge fan of plaques. A note with a bottle of something or a gift card can express gratitude, too.

Posted in gratitude

Thank you for what you do

Posted on by William Douthwaite
Photo by Tatiana Rodriguez on Unsplash

After the late worship service last Sunday, one of our members who shook my hand said, “I just want to thank you for what you do.” At that moment I was losing my voice and I said as best I could, “You’re welcome.” He continued, “You’re here week after week and you always lay out the message clearly. I appreciate that.”

That was a powerful moment. Words of thanks that only take a few seconds to speak are potent. I know that, but I also need to be reminded. One can never say, “Thanks,” too often. And one ought never underestimate the difference those words make.

A simple “thank you” acknowledges a person, validates their actions, elevates them and expresses your feelings towards them. Your value and theirs increases with words of appreciation.

Here’s a great question to ask yourself each morning: “Who can I thank today?” A spouse, a barista, a teacher, a child or a contractor? How will your word of thanks make a difference?

Posted in Rant

Appreciation

Posted on by William Douthwaite

 

It's that time of year again. pastor appreciation month. In a little over a week, it will be pastor appreciation day, October 13. I am not sure who started this movement, but I suspect it was someone in the greeting card business.

I'll be frank. I've got mixed feelings. Of course I like to be appreciated. Who doesn't? Yet at the same time, I'm conflicted. There have been many Sundays when I have fervently prayed that people not be impressed with me, but with God and all He's done for us. The very nature of a pastor's job means being in the spotlight, but the whole time, I am trying to get you to appreciate the Son of God to whom we say we ascribe all the glory and honor.

Plus, the whole idea of appreciation is expressed in some very unusual ways. Cards, gift cards, keychains and the always popular religious themed tie. There are some other lists out there with ideas, but most still miss the mark.

Want to make your pastor feel appreciated?

  • Show up. We pastors spend a lot of time preparing sermons and bible classes for you. It kind of defeats the purpose if you aren't there to hear them.
  • Suit up. When you are asked to take a position of leadership in the church, head up a ministry, or help out, say, “Yes.” We pastors spend much time equipping you for ministry. It's not encouraging at all when person after person says, “No.”
  • Speak up. You have something on your mind? Tell me. Ask me. Challenge me. Don't assume I know. I am terrible at reading minds. And don't try to get to me through someone else, especially my wife. I'd really appreciate that.
  • Look up. Hey, I am a pastor, so I have to throw out a bible passage. How about Colosians 3:1 “If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.” Develop a vibrant relationship with Jesus, and I will feel like my work has not been in vain.

I know that not everyone will appreciate these comments, but it's my blog and I'll rant if I want to. It's just some food for thought. I'll try and be a little less cynical tomorrow.