Timely re-post: The Art of Gratitude and 4-H

This was originally posted March 4, 2008. It is something that we feel strongly enough about that we wanted to post it again. We're seeing some changes in Douglas County that are happening in large part because hard-working 4-H volunteers and long-time sponsors do not receive thank you's or any expression of gratitude. Did all of you thank ALL those who deserved it this last 4-H year?

"What is gratitude? The American Heritage Dictionary defines it as a noun meaning the state of being grateful; thankfulness. This is a most basic definition, but gratitude is so much more, don’t you think?

Gratitude is taking the time to reflect upon your blessings, appreciate what you already have, give to others without expectations, and notice the small things that make the world a beautiful place.

The 4-H program values gratitude. A basic tenet is that 4-H members thank the many volunteers and contributors that make the program a success.

Without volunteers, we would have no project leaders willingly sharing knowledge. There would be no superintendents spending hours and hours making sure activities and functions happen. There would be no sponsors providing financial assistance so that 4-H members receive belt buckles, trophies, and monetary awards.

In short, 4-H volunteers and contributors are our blessings.

Have you thanked them? Did you send each and every sponsor a formal thank you note after last year’s fair? Do you tell your leaders thank you at meetings? How do you show your gratitude in the 4-H Program?"

“In our daily lives, we must see that it is not happiness that makes us grateful, but the gratefulness that makes us happy.” Albert Clarke