Random Acts Of Thanks & Giving Week: November 24, 2023 (Day 4)
👍🏼You're Welcome👍🏼
I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and welcome back to our 2nd Annual Random Acts Of Thanks & Giving Week! We'll give you different Thanks and Giving themed Today's Kindness every day this week to usher in the holiday season!
You're Welcomegiving Day is observed annually on the day after Thanksgiving. Conventionally when someone thanks us for a kindness or service, we respond by saying, "You're Welcome." So, it was inevitable that someone would suggest the day after Thanksgiving we should remember to say, "You're welcome."
The phrase "you're welcome" was used as a response to the phrase "thank you" as far back as 1603 and is found in Shakespeare's play, "Othello." The phrase stems from the old English word 'wilcuma,' which is a combination of the words 'guest' and 'pleasure.' Though it is also used to graciously welcome a guest, it has become a commonplace response to thanks.
However, it is believed by some that the phrase carries some underlying smugness or self-appreciation. It has also become a rote response that most people may recite without even realizing it.
On social media, a person might create a post with some meaningful or entertaining information and caption it with the phrase "you're welcome," acknowledging that people will appreciate it. This is also done outside of social media, as a person might not even wait for a show of appreciation after a kind act before spouting the phrase "you're welcome."
This is not to say that "you're welcome" isn't a much-needed part of social interaction. However, whether one uses those exact words or replaces them with others, the point remains that we are to accept appreciation with the same humility and grace as we received. The privilege of being a blessing is indeed one to be grateful for.
How To Observe:
Respond Gracefully
When someone expresses their appreciation for something you've done, remember to respond with grace and humility for getting the privilege to be a blessing to others. You're welcome.
Say "Thank You"
It's important to show gratitude and appreciation when someone does or says something kind to you. Saying "thank you" should become a habit that extends beyond this celebration.
Use the Hashtag
Let everyone know why we're celebrating. Then, get on social media and add the hashtag #yourewelcomegivingday to a post about appreciation and humility.
"To kindness and love, the things we need most!"
~ The Grinch