"I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.”
During the first several weeks of my very first professional job after graduate school, I learned a very tough but important lesson. I was a Residence Hall Director at the University of Tennessee, overseeing an on-campus residential building of 550 female students and 15 female student staff members.
I was professional, organized, task-driven, and dedicated to my position. But, I lacked something that my staff members needed.
One evening, they called a special meeting to share their frustration with me. I was completely shocked and confused by the meeting. They took turns explaining their frustration that I was not giving them any Happy Notes. What? Happy Notes?
I had been completely oblivious to the fact that each week, my staff had taken it upon themselves to write encouraging and supportive notes to place in each others’ mailboxes at the front desk, and they had lovingly named these Happy Notes. They used colorful markers, 3X5 notecards, and stickers. This did not seem to be something that a boss would participate in, but they thought differently. They wanted Happy Notes from me.
So, I decided to heed their request. I bought some colorful markers, note cards, and stickers, and each Sunday I took time to write out personalized notes of gratitude, encouragement, and support. I placed these in my staff members’ mailboxes throughout the week.
The personality of our team changed. There was more laughter, more personal conversation, and more positive interactions, and they embraced me as their friend and leader. Who knew the difference a little Happy Note could make?
Who could you send a Happy Note to today? Who needs your encouragement and support? Who would love to hear from you how proud you are of them? Who can you tell that you are thankful for them, that you have been praying for them?
I am going to send some Happy Notes this month as we close out the Thanksgiving season. I invite you to do the same.
By the way … I am thankful for you! I am remembering you in my prayers. Thank you for being here. Thank you for reading. I appreciate you!
let's pray
Heavenly Father, bless my Jesus sister who is reading this today. Remind her just how much you love her. Remind her of the many happy notes you have sent for her through your Word. Prompt us to send a happy note this Thanksgiving season to share that love with someone who needs it most. Amen.
3 Responses
I love to give and receive Happy Notes and your reminder prompted me to send some this Thanksgiving season. Thanks, I appreciate you and your encouragement through these posts. You are one of my favorite people because you share Jesus wherever you go.
Thanks, Juanita! I am sure the recipients of your happy notes felt extra loved this holiday season. Blessings!
What a wonderful idea…everyone can use an encouraging note and prayers. Thank you for the idea.