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By Wade Manora Jr.

Director of Multicultural Student Affairs

As we make our way toward the time of year where we think about sharing love and appreciation for one another with gifts and other physical affirmations, we must also remember that simple genuine gestures of gratitude like saying "thank you" and "you're welcome" can also help with your wellness. They are likely to have a positive impact on others, as well. 

After the financial, emotional, spiritual, academic, and social challenges of this year, take the time to extend grace and gratitude to those with whom you interact. Of course, this will look a little different based upon the relationship you have with each person. However, here are some suggestions on how to express gratitude:

Peers and classmates

• Offer positive affirmations and other forms of encouragement nonverbally.
• Handwritten sticky notes and letters.

Staff and faculty

• "You inspire me" emails: Send your favorite staff member and faculty member an email informing them of the impact they made on you.
• Bring them a small desk item. We love mementos from our students.

Besties and friends

• Host a praise brunch to spread appreciation to your friends.
• Reciprocate and reward good experiences with acts of appreciation.

Partner or spouse

• Learn and practice the language in which they receive praise and love.
• Create genuine opportunities for bonding.

I like to think that showing gratitude is one of those things that is like a small pebble being thrown into a lake. People are like lakes that are full of nuance and complexities while going through the ebbs and flows of emotions.

That small pebble of gratitude can affect that person's entire day, which affects their experience, which affects the rest of their life. That ripple can go on forever and forever. Don't miss out on your opportunity to positively change someone. As the person who tossed the pebble, this action has the ability to help you feel good about yourself and moves you closer and closer to achieving overall wellness.

Roy T. Bennett famously wrote, "Be mindful. Be grateful. Be positive. Be kind."