Dear Angela

Dec 8

Once I read about the Gratitude Letter I knew exactly who I would write one for, and I drafted it right away. That was more than two years ago. I never sent it.

The idea is simple. You pick someone “who has made a major positive difference in your life, and to whom you have never fully expressed your thanks.” Then you write a letter and share it with the other person in some way.

Why do I need an exercise to offer gratitude to someone I care about? Why did it take me two years to complete my letter? I don’t know.

But this week I got just the push I needed. The Gratitude Letter is an exercise in a WOL Resilience program that’s underway and I’m asking forty other people to write and send their letter. Knowing that helped me finish mine and share it today.

Who made a positive difference in your life? When will you tell them?

***

Dear Angela,

Thank you for one of the greatest gifts anyone could ever receive: the feeling of being special.

One of my first memories of you is at a birthday party. I might have been 5 or 6, and there you were, beautiful and glamorous, helping us with games and activities. One involved passing an orange between us without using our hands but only by holding it under our chin. That you paid any attention to us at all was thrilling.

Then there were the many excursions to Manhattan, which seemed to me like a faraway exotic place. You asked my opinions. “Where would you like to go?” And you were never bored or irritated when I gave the same answers I always gave. “The Museum of Natural History” or “Climb the rocks in Central Park.”

When you were married, we danced at your wedding. I’m pretty sure we did “The Twist” at some point. I was awkward and uncomfortable, but you made me feel like it was okay, like I was okay.

I always looked up to you. Sometimes it was for your beautiful home, your family, the way you entertained with style, grace, and charm.

As the years passed, I became ever more inspired by who you are as a person, by the work you do and the contributions you make. Your creativity and curiosity, your willingness to explore and experiment, and your persistence and commitment are all qualities I want in myself. You make a difference by empowering others, and have changed the lives of thousands of families.

We have each had our ups and downs. When I was lost, you were the one I turned to for guidance. And you made me feel cared for and special even then.

You are my godmother, my teacher, my role model.

Thank you for all you have done for me. I love you.

Johnny