God puts you in places and relationships along your journey of life that you may not have chosen for yourself. There’s always a reason. Be it because you are ignoring His message, He is teaching you something or He is using you to help others — have faith and know there is always a reason.

Next week I am about to start a new chapter in my journey and I couldn’t be more excited. I’m going to be writing for a health and wellness company. Seriously, right?! What could be a more perfect fit. After hearing this news, I received a note from a co-worker (and she’s also a very good friend now too) thanking me for being an inspiring person. While I know that I strive to be inspiring, I’ve not giving much thought to what I may have actually inspired – because really, who’s going around taking a tally?

It’s through work that we came to know each other and find our very special friendship (Insert thanks to God here for creating this opportunity.). We both can be awkward and embrace that. We like being weird. We’re honest. We both like to write. And we have kiddos in the same age range that make our “Mom Moments” completely relatable. She’s inspired me to embrace my writing and creativity, write my 30 Days of Hope series, be at peace with my crazy addiction love of social media, and given me confidence in my ability to teach and help others.

I never really stopped to think exactly what I may have inspired her to do. Do you want to know? Here’s what her note said:

“Without you, I’d never have launched my Etsy store, lost 50 lbs or started writing my book. I’m forever grateful for your friendship and hope we remain close….”

I almost cried. Can you believe that? I helped someone turn a hobby into a side income stream, get healthier and reach for her dream. What an amazing feeling. And really, thanks should go to her for all the things she has inspired me to do. It’s like God put us in the right place and the right time to create a wonderful friendship that has enormous value and does good in both of our lives.

But without a thank you, we may not even realize the value of our friendsip. Thanking a person often gets forgotten in our busy hectic day – for both the little and big things. And yet, a thank you has the power to create stronger relationships and possibly change your life. A person who regularly shares thanks to those around him can motivate others to do the same. An environment where everyone gives thanks is a positive, rewarding and fulfilling place to be.

Consider all those you can thank in your daily interactions. Whether it’s the coworker who brought your papers to you from the printer, the person in the grocery store that let you know you just dropped your coupon, or someone special that has been inspiring you to start your dream, thank them today. You can give thanks in many ways. Smile and say thank you. Write a note. Write a card. Do something nice for them. Send an email. Or even just stop them during the day to thank them in person. And you can also pass it forward. You have no idea just how much your thanks could mean to them.

Welcome the opportunity to find thanks in any situation. I know I will be.

If you enjoyed this post, check out my series 30 Days of Hope.

#hopeeveryday