In All Things

Our campus Student Government Association (SGA) did a magnificent thing this month. They recognized our facilities staff, the housekeepers, maintenance people and groundskeepers and others who work, usually behind the scenes of campus, to keep it all running safely and smoothly.

The SGA put out flyers, featuring pictures and biographies of our staff, and posted large sheets of papers with staff names on them for students to write notes of thanks and greetings.

This small act literally changed the atmosphere of the university. As finals approach and the weight of exams and projects grows, this project helped make people think outside of their situation and join an outpouring of thanks and joy.

No drug, no food, no drink can capture or replace the feeling of expressing or receiving gratitude.

This tradition of giving and receiving in these holidays brings light and lightness to our eyes and steps, as well as smiles and memories and a breath of fresh, chilled air.

Doctors have studied the calming effects of giving thanks.

Business leader Dominique Harroch writes that “the simple acts of gratitude, humility, and kindness can have a profound impact, creating a legacy of respect and mutual growth.” That has certainly happened here in just days of email posts and posters.

Is it that simple? Perhaps. It certainly must be intentional, consistent, and, yes, modeled by leaders.

And when it is, Harroch writes, it can impact relationships and synergy in businesses and beyond.

Her article in Forbes also points out how simple it is to show gratitude. Say thank you, recognize others’ efforts to do so, celebrate others. Harroch writes, “The simple acts of gratitude, humility, and kindness can have a profound impact…”

We know this to be true. How can we make it so, especially outside of two memorable months? Perhaps it is repetition - beginning and ending each day with thanks, or making the point of accenting the positive before rolling up our sleeves to tackle the challenges. Maybe seeing joy in the little things that live and move around us, like ice cream, babies, snowflakes and music.

In all things this season, give thanks. It may catch on and lock in for the long run instead of being packed away with the ornaments and leftovers of the season.

Joanne Williams is Associate Professor of Media Production and Communication at The University of Olivet.