The Power of a Thank-You
By Elizabeth
They are small words: thank-you. We are taught them at a very young age as a matter of politeness, and with repetition learn to utter them almost as a reflex. And while these small words can sometimes function as simply a social nicety in response to small gestures like leaving the door open or passing the salt at the dinner table, these same small words are also used for larger acts of kindness and courage. The expression of thanks can be powerful in changing someone’s outlook and mood. Gratitude benefits both the giver and receiver, and is contagious. It’s a small way to lift others during a time when we all could use some lifting.
As a teacher, I know that the day-to-day work of teaching often goes un-thanked and unrecognized. We rarely have other adult peers who might observe us while teaching and cheer us on, and it’s rare for students to comment on those days when we really nailed it as a teacher. I remember one student thanking me after a senior high health class. I can still picture him waiting for everyone to leave after class to talk to me and say, “Thank-you for planning such a fun class today,” partly because it was such a singular event (a student noticing my efforts immediately after teaching, that is; I like to think there have been other fun lesson plans). Most of the time, students said thank-you on certain occasions: before winter break and at the end of the school year. Perhaps because these thank-you messages came in batches, I have kept many of them like a squirrel saving up for winter. I like to review them on those days when I need a boost and to be reminded of why I became a teacher in the first place.
I still keep the scrapbook a class gave to me, where each student created a thank-you page for me. I was so touched by their messages and that teenagers took the time to craft for my benefit.
Thank-you notes have helped me to become a better and more engaged teacher. My favourite thank-you notes from students or parents include specific details or stories of what they appreciated. I learn from what stands out to students as memorable or helpful. As a first-time lecturer for a large cohort of pre-service teachers at the University of Calgary this year, teaching from a distance due to pandemic restrictions, I did not expect to be able to make the same kind of connections I could with students in the K-12 context. When students sent thoughtful emails thanking me for my efforts in the course, it not only made my day, but made me feel more connected to them as their teacher. Their thankful emails are a highlight from teaching that course.
I don’t think I’m the only teacher that saves thank-you cards, messages, and emails. I’m curious: do you keep expressions of gratitude? How has an expression of thanks helped you? Please share a story or photo about a thank-you that was particularly meaningful to you below or on our social channels.
