Appreciation

Appreciation - recognition and enjoyment of the good qualities of someone or something - according to the Oxford Dictionary. 

Appreciation - a word that enters our conversation a great deal these days - I appreciate you being here. I appreciate all you're doing. I appreciate the help.

Basically, it is another way to say Thank You. 

At school every year, there are several Appreciation Days to celebrate and remember. Facebook and teacher websites remind us to appreciate various groups, and honestly, many of us feel compelled to celebrate with gifts, food, privileges. 

I was one of those people who did keep up, gave gifts. and arranged for snacks.  I wondered why folks didn't seem "appreciated" and maybe even grumbly about the display of thanks. Never understood that, as I was struggling to make sure everyone was recognized and happy - the sure recipe to a harmonious school family. Right?

Recently, I was subbing in a classroom. A harried administrator burst into the room, announced that she was terrible with names, and asked the para educators to remind her of their names so she could give each a t-shirt for Teacher Appreciation Week.  When she left the room, the adults were just stunned. "I appreciate the t-shirt, but I'd rather have ..." was the basic comment.  They'd rather have respect, more frequent face-to-face thank you's, support in their work - NOT more money, insurance, days off.  They weren't disrespectful or unappreciative, just honest about what makes them feel appreciated.

My brain started churning, thinking about all the times I had arranged these appreciations, and I wondered how they had been received. 

Had I done the right thing with celebrations? Yes, I think so, because I wanted all staff to take a minute to appreciate their teammates. I wanted our students to know that it took a huge team to support them every day.  And, because I did more to support them outside of an appreciation day. 

I know the power of a personal note, a quiet check-in about a sick family member, or class coverage so a teacher wouldn't miss their own child's performance.  Building relationships through sincere thanks and support is the key to building that school family - any family - and I was the recipient of their support when I needed it. My school family surrounded me more than once and all I could say was Thank you, deeply, sincerely, and with much respect.  

How can we save recognition and enjoyment of the good qualities of someone for just one designated day a year?  Isn't it better to notice and say so on an ordinary Wednesday or busy Monday? Thank you is easy to say and it goes a long way to support people.  Thank you means you have been seen, you have been heard.  That is a true gesture of appreciation - seeing and hearing those you respect and love.