The Kitchen Staff (06/01/2024)

It started years ago when I was eating out and was struck by the talent of the kitchen staff. As an ex-cater, I know how difficult it is to keep the quality in quantity. At the end of dinner, I excused myself from the table, found my way to the kitchen, walked in like I was supposed to be there, and complimented them on their superior food preparation and presentation. Their faces told me that not only were they surprised by my boldness but touched by knowing that what they did was noticed and appreciated. And thus began my tradition of visiting the kitchen staff every Friday night.

We can take for granted the goodness that we order up and expect to arrive. One secret “of the Way” that I have learned that makes all the difference is that gratitude matters. When we take into account and give thanks for all that is behind the moment we are living, we not only acknowledge what has been done for us but also unlock the door to joy.

I know some joyful people and one thing they all have in common is their penchant for gratitude. “Thank you” comes naturally for them. I also know some folks who need to happy up, and when I observe them, I usually find that they are so focused on what isn’t the way they want they totally miss all that is going on around them that is.

When we exercise gratitude, while it is us giving something, we actually find that it does not deplete our storehouse but enlarge it. It’s one of the ironic goods that come from our journeys. When we acknowledge the good in others and the kindness of others, we recognize that we are not alone on this journey. That applies to our human companions on the way, as well as our LORD.

For a day, let us all monitor our gratitude. How many times today will we speak the words, “Thank you”? How often will it be in recognition of the kindness of another person? How often will it be in recognition of the power and presence of the LORD at work in our world and lives? Understanding our human nature, we may find that when we focus on gratitude, we actually express gratitude. So, let us also monitor our levels of joy as we live this day with gratitude on our minds and in our hearts.

Let us go out of our way to notice the good that is done by another that positively impacts us. Let us say “Thank you” for not only the big things and gestures but the small as well. Does someone else do our laundry? When was the last time we said, “Thank you”? Does someone else do the shopping? When was the last time we said, “Thank you”? Does someone else make the bed? When was the last time we said, “Thank you”? Did somone watch over us as we slept and was still with us as we woke? When was the last time we said, “Thank you”?

Let’s focus on gratitude today and see what difference it makes on the way.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.