The Wisdom of Being A Good Receiver

Have you a relative or friend who cannot receive a compliment. "Oh, it was nothing," they say. How about a friend who takes a gift and puts it in a back closet, never to be used or see the light of day. Maybe that describes you.

Let's face it. Some people are poor receivers. They might be generous at gift giving but as receivers they suck!

Consider how these kinds of actions and words affect the gifter. People who give like to know their generosity rewards the receiver. That their appreciation increases your self image and worth. They are encouragers and supporters. Their reward is to know you have benefited. No doubt some givers would be disappointed with these luke warm responses from those presented with their compliments and gifts.

So next time you receive a gift, think about how how your response affects the giver and how you can show that person appreciation.

For a compliment you might say, "Well, thank you. I never considered this. I am glad I could be of help."

For a gift when writing a thank you note, you can say (if true) how you used or will use the gift. "I'll be putting the hand soaps in the guest bathroom, thank you." In this season of presents kindly wrapped with bright paper and ribbon, being a good receiver can be a form of giving back to the giver.