Emotional Intimacy Question: Gratitude

[ysabetwordsmith]

Folks have mentioned an interest in questions and conversations that make them think. So I've decided to offer more of those. This is the current list.

38. How do you express gratitude towards others? Give me an example.

Sometimes I repay it in kind, like if someone writes a story for me, I may do one for them.  Other times it's almost the opposite, such as doing a chore I dislike.

Comments

[heron61]

It depends on the level of gratitude/the size of what was done for me. At low levels, I typically provide sincere expression of thanks and a promise of aid in the future or a response in kind. For larger degrees of gratitude, my response is generally to do something. Most often this something is making food. I invite the person over for dinner, make them a fancy dessert or whatever else they might want (unless I already know what they like and want, I always ask). Doing something more me is an excellent way to get well fed.

[caera_ash]

I usually just thank them. And tell them how wonderful they are. And add them to the list of people I share my baking with (I get stressed and then make unreasonable numbers of cookies). Sometimes I'll do something for them, if I know they don't want to do something and I can do it without trouble.

[redsixwing]

I thank them with words, and I look for places I can do something nice for them, be that a small treat or help on something that's been bothering them.

I make a game of listening for minor expressed wants. Not only does that make gift-giving occasions fun when you can surprise someone with something they mentioned offhand six months ago, but it makes really good fodder for small acts of gratitude.