Spring 2022
It’s As Easy As A Thank You Note by Ken Corbett, Past National President, ΚΚΨ & Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser, Vice President of Education for Conn-Selmer, Inc
W
e live in a fast paced world; it seems as though everything is moving at the speed of light. We rush from class to class, from one work duty to another, or we find ourselves scurrying frantically from music appreciation to a band rehearsal. Because of this Vivace tempo-of-living (and the pressure that goes with it,) it is easy to become hopelessly frustrated. Such an emotional state can easily translate into a desire to give-up and give-in. That is certainly not a pleasant diagnosis and yet we witness it day-in and day-out. How do we avoid this downward spiral? What can we do to reset our minds, our hearts, our souls? While it seems simple-in-thought, let's step back from time to time and look at what we are grateful for. Gratitude is a certain antidote for shifting a person’s focus from negative to positive. What’s more, showing gratitude doesn’t have to be complicated, it is as simple as using two words: THANK YOU. When this sentiment is expressed sincerely, it can have a profound impact on someone else’s attitude as well as our own; it’s the ultimate WIN-WIN scenario. May we suggest developing a daily habit of considering three things you are grateful for or seek the opportunity to express our gratitude uplifting another person. In doing so, you will train your brain to become more optimistic and more positive; it impacts your “state-of-mind.” Rather than dwelling on the downsides of your personal landscape, you can recalibrate your thinking to actively find the many benefits that continue to come your way. Since the mind leads us in the direction of its most dominant thoughts, the world around you takes on a new perspective.
Here are some easy and simple ways to begin your journey to being truly grateful: Three Good Things – As you identify your three areas of gratefulness, write them down. The physical act of writing affords a deeper imprint on your personality. This is a true gift to yourself; as a result it is mirrored by all those around you. Gratitude Jar – Anytime something good happens, jot it down on a piece of paper, fold it up and stuff it in your gratitude jar. It will serve as a powerful visual clue (and cue!). You will be astounded at how quickly your jar fills, moreover you will be reminded of the positivity you are experiencing each and every day. A Gooney Message – Write a twominute email or text praising or thanking a different person each day. Keep it short. It can not only transform your own level of happiness, but it will expand your social connections as well. You will quickly sense the support it generates with the people around you. The Old-fashioned Way - While a text or computerized emoji message works in today’s age of technology, it cannot be said how much stronger your gratitude is felt when it is delivered in a handwritten note, there *is* no substitute for such personalization. Sit down with pen-’n-paper and compose a handwritten note sharing your gratefulness; it is sincere gesture guaranteed to lift the spirits of its receiver and everyone else. “Personally, I love the handwritten note or letter that shows someone took the time to sit down and write it, so this is my bias,” says Ken Corbett. “The younger fraternity brothers reading this may say, excuse me, handwritten notes in this age of computers, get with it. However, the
feelings I have when receiving a note, reading it and knowing that the person took the time to sit down and write out how grateful they are, only strengthens my belief in brotherhood and how each and every one of us is grateful that we are part of a much stronger entity – ΚΚΨ.” “Let me reinforce Ken's spot-on thoughts. Actually, the cyberspace world has increased the value of the handwritten message. We’re inundated with social media that short-chains us to our phones, so when someone stops-the-world to write a personal note, IT GETS ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY. It does not get lost in the flood of advertisements, requests and generic outreaches. You can bet the note will be read, and - most likely - saved!" says, Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser. As for the content of your messages: “Short-and-sweet” will be your best guide. Spotlight the value of the receiver. It is a case where less-is-more. Keep it simple and sincere. It’s the brief notes or heartfelt comments that create a sense of CARING. A thank you note expressing gratitude has the remarkable power to transform your state of mind and alter your emotions through a precious, soul-gratifying experience. Start to think about those individuals you need to be grateful for in addition to your parents, your friends or that special someone; please consider your band director(s) who also fit into this very special category of recognition. Without them, you would have missed out on being part of a great band family; we well-know it is a brotherhood that lasts a lifetime. Take a minute or two to script that handwritten note to your band director(s). Both of you will be grateful and the sun will shine brighter on everyone…and, for that, we *can* be mighty grateful!
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