As the years go by I find that the world is changing and leaving me behind.  I’m sure these were feelings and thoughts my parents and grandparents felt.  As time goes along there appears to be less civility among us.  Cursing openly on streets, in public transportation, and in public venue even amongst children seems to be the norm.  When I remind these individuals that there are children around they usually appologize but continue on with the “F-K” and such after a short period of time. 

But what I really wanted to talk about is the lack of appreciation shown by many young people.  As owner of the Therapeutic Recreation Directory I get a lot of emails directed towards me.  Some of the emails include items such as “tell me eveything about recreation therapy!!!”  Or I get a document with 50 questions asking me about recreation therapy for their school assignment.  I get questions about how to get a job, what its like to be a rec therapist, etc.  I get asked a lot of advise…. mostly from college students as part of their assignment or from high school students looking for a career.

I have never deleted these emails.  I have diligently responded to each question… except for the ones that ask me to tell them everything I know about rec therapy… for those I refer them to read a book!!!

Sadly, I would have to say that over 90% of those individuals that I took time to respond never wrote back to say “thank you.”  Am I personally offended?  Not at all.  I’m not that upset even whem my neices and nephews fail to express their appeciation for their birthday gifts and Christmas gifts.   But I can tell you this – when you don’t express gratitude, it reflects poorly upon you as an individual and as a future therapist.

Spend a few moments emailing or sending a thank you card.  The small amount of time that you take to express your appreciation will go a long way.  The recipient of your message will appreciate it and think highly of you.  You will help make this word a more civil place.

Here are some words of advice – after you complete your job interview be sure to follow up with a letter of appreciation.  When you complete your college degree be sure to let your professors and advisor know that you appreciated their energy and effort to help you succeed.  Let your parents know how much you appreciated the money and support they provided to you.  And so on so on…. don’t be a part of the NO “thank you” generation.

Charlie Dixon