Grazie. Merci. Gracias. Thank you. The words are different but the sentiment is the same- gratitude for the kindness of others.
A thoughtful neighbor brought me a weekend WSJ last Saturday. She knew that Off Duty was my favorite section of the week and was concerned that our papers hadn’t been delivered that morning. That’s a little embarrassing to admit- sort of like saying the best part of the NY Times is Modern Love or the Charlotte Observer is good for comics and obituaries. I’ll fess up- all true.
Having just scored a 12 pack of toilet paper that morning, I was feeling flush. I hope this is the only time in my life when this seems like a legitimate thank you gift rather than a sophomoric joke. But we live in strange times so who knows. Maybe we should admit that no one really knows and not beat ourselves up. Be as nice to yourself as you are to others. Thank yourself for showing up and doing the best you can.
And please, don’t hoard the Charmin.