Note : Sorry about the screw up with the photos….still getting used to using Zooomr.com.

• family members and friends continously tell you that they are going to miss you.

• they keep reminding you to keep in touch, everytime they see you.

• they keep telling Mum she’ll be here alone. [This I hate the most coz you don't have to rub it in and remind her of this fact, you know? :grouch:]

And this is the sad bit however, there is always the brighter side to things. This is when you are affirmed and been told how appreciative people are about you. It happened last night at my prayer group meeting. We meet once a month and discuss a reflection paper. I didn’t expect anything from anyone and I went because Aunty B asked me to go and I thought why not since it would be my last meeting anyway. But I was a little bit suspicious as my Mum was very insistent on coming and it’s not like her to want to go for this meeting, what more with Mum having a bad throat AND cough. Other than feeling weird and suspicious about Mum, I pushed the thought aside.

Everything went as normal and right after the final prayer. Terence, the new treasurer [who took over my duties] stood up and began giving a speech, thanking moi for all that I had done for them the past few years being in the committee and all. It still hadn’t dawned on me that the meeting was actually a potluck party too! It was only until he held out a small paper bag did I realise that the gift was for me and the ’surprise’ party was for me. :blush: I was touched, overwhelmed and blushing all at the same time. I guess this is what happens when you least expect something and then you get it. This is the first time I ever had a proper surprise party and I loved it! To think that Mum knew about this a month ago…..lol :hehe: She sure can keep a secret until yesterday when she very nearly blew it by mentioning something. Lucky for her I didn’t take note.

Me getting my gift Hosted on Zooomr

My BEC group gave me a beautiful crystal figurine of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and it has a light embedded inside and if you twist the bottom [which in turn makes the connection with the battery], it lights up. It will fit perfectly on our new altar at home. It was very thoughtful of them, coming up with this. I felt very appreciated and that affirmed me. It boosted my confidence and not only that, it was a motivation to continue being who I am, doing what I do best.

Perfect gift Hosted on Zooomr

Food, glorious food! Hosted on Zooomr

There weren’t many times that people took the trouble to speak out and tell me how much they appreciated my help or presence but when they did, my spirits would soar and I could feel my whole being lifted up. It’s a wonderful feeling to feel wanted and appreciated. The bottom line is, even a simple heartfelt and sincere ‘thank you’ is more than enough to continuously give moral support and confidence to the giver. That is one of the reasons why we should never take these words for granted.

To me personally, thank you is the universal sign of appreciation and thanksgiving coz that’s what my Mama taught me. And she taught me well. :love: