No argument, communication is the lifeblood of healthy relationships. But for some of us, sitting down and verbally pouring out statements of gratitude for other members of our grandchildren’s team would be awkward.
But let’s look at an idea that’s probably less intimidating. Just a little bit of effort–a moment each day–can encourage parents, teachers, coaches, pastors, other grandparents, and anyone who is supporting your grandchildren.
Bill Snyder has been the Head Football Coach at Kansas State University for many years. Several months ago, an article was published in ESPN that claimed that Coach Snyder takes time out of his very intense schedule to write literally hundreds of encouraging notes every week.
When he sees team members who have gone the extra mile, he goes out of his way to handwrite a note of appreciation. He wants to make sure to highlight the successes he sees. But not only members of his team who are singled out for Coach’s recognition. He makes it part of his routine to hand write notes to players from other teams who he has seen display courage or sportsmanship.
I recently had a close family member who was struggling with a very difficult health issue. I wrote a note to Coach Snyder and explained the situation, then asked if he would be willing to send a note of encouragement. Three weeks later, a handwritten note came in the mail on Kansas State Wildcat stationary, with that distinctive purple all over it.
If such a busy public person can take a few minutes every day to call out positives that he sees in the people around him, is it worth a try to give it a whirl?
Just a few simple handwritten words can make someone’s day who is working hard to raise our grandchildren. And, as you might expect, it works with our kids, too.
