How Gratitude Helps
Last week I went for a blood test. Because I had to fast the night before, I went to the lab early the next morning.
There were three phlebotomists drawing blood. The body language of one of the women, which included a frown, led me to conclude she has not happy to be there. I wondered what I would say to a person so seemingly unfriendly. Then she called my name.
The first thing she volunteered was that the people in the office did not appreciate her coming in that morning, particularly on such short notice. She was filling in for another technician, and told me that a relative was very sick so it was hard for her to be at work.
Seeing that she was distraught, I said that I appreciated her helping me and that I hoped her problems would be resolved quickly. I listened as she told me about other concerns, such as the financial difficulties in her household.
As I was leaving, I thanked her again. I saw just a hint of a smile. It made me feel good to show gratitude. I hoped it helped her too.
