There is a phrase in Hebrew that is hard to translate into English. Hakarat Hatov literally means recognizing the good in someone. It can be a simple acknowledgment as to how you appreciate another's actions. And it feels great to know that someone "caught" you doing good and is grateful.
Here in camp, it is easy to work really hard all day and go unnoticed by the upper staff. In fact, the focus is usually on what did not get done rather than appreciating the extraordinary effort that goes into our work. People here work all hours of the night and day, devoted to enhancing the experience of the campers. The salary isn't great, but the rewards of impacting a life can be priceless. We usually work with no expectation of feedback from upper staff.
A few weeks ago, I returned to the art room after lunch on a Friday to find a beautiful bouquet of sunflowers. Attached was a note from the camp director in appreciation of the hard work we have devoted to the art department. It felt great to receive the lovely gift, to just be noticed and appreciated with a kind thoughtful word and a small gift from nature's bounty.
Yesterday, in the midst of chaos in the art room, with tons of camp projects going on in addition to our regular schedule of classes, I got a call from the camp director. She wanted to take the art department out for ice cream the following day. The local ice cream store has delicious ice cream in a wide variety of yummy flavors, and it's something I rarely treat myself to. So, today we will be going out with the director for an acknowledgment treat, which makes the ice cream even more special.
A little hakarat hatov goes a long way. I feel a little bounce to my step today. I am eager to work even harder. And it didn't take much. I can be easily swayed with a kind word or a scoop of Almond Joy ice cream. Will you share some examples of hakarat hatov in your life?
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Thank you for sharing. Your comments on acknowledgment are like jewels from heaven. Another area of people we forget to acknowledge are the very ones we are the closest to. I'm fortunate because my husband shows me each and every day how much he appreciates me. A kind word, hug, or even his smile is enough to make my day special and give me that "bounce".
ReplyDeleteYou are a lucky woman to have such a loving and compassionate man, and he is lucky to have such a warm, appreciative, kind woman. Thanks for sharing your story with me by email about the evolution of your relationship. I loved hearing about it!
ReplyDeleteI find that even just having a person say 'thank you' to me can put a smile on my face. I love having my work recognized. I often bring in cookies or other things I've made for people at work. On those days I feel great because I have people thanking me left and right. =)
ReplyDeleteMmm, I would thank you for a home baked cookie!
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