Let's start with...

1.Moms (DUH)

Especially when you’re at college you realize how much you need Mom and took her for granted. How do they do it all?? She is called frequently to ask important questions or to chat. Next time, say thanks for all she’s done, is doing and will do for you. It’ll make her day.

2. Teachers

Yes, we love them, and we love to hate them. I understand: sometimes their teaching style is unpardonable, their lectures unbearable, and the homework load is unmanageable. However, they have dedicated years of their life to the goal of educating you. They have a mission and some days it is harder to fulfill than others. Other days they nail it and have a lasting influence in your life. But instead of ranting about them (I am guilty of this, too), thank them in person for their sacrifice and persistence.

3. Leaders

The leadership in government is significant and you can definitely call your representative up individually and thank them. However, if there are prominent leaders in your community or church—thank them. They do a massive amount of work and effort behind the scenes. Yes, that is part of their job but why shouldn’t you thank them since you both will benefit? Seek them out, let them be thanked and heard.

4. Bus driver, Cafeteria worker, Janitor

Another behind the scenes employment that do not often get the thanks they truly deserve. Perhaps uniquely at Liberty University do these underappreciated folks continue steadfast and are kind and uplifting; even encouraging and praying for students at times. Thank them and return the love.

5. God

Before you brush

this off as cliché, listen to me. There are only two types of prayer to God. It’s

either help or thanks. And if we did one more than we would do the other less—ain’t

that the truth. So, the suggestion is to turn to God more often and give

thanks/praise for the reality of things, even the little things, before

limiting yourself to only asking for His help. Thanking God is an essential part

of the Christian walk.

6. Boss

This is not a “thank you for hiring me even though I have a crappy resume” deal. This is a genuine assessment of how your boss (even though they can be difficult at times) is shaping you to be a better employee and co-worker. You are gaining real world experience, finances to manage and career skills to finesse. Your work environment may not

be ideal, but taking stock of the values you are learning either directly from your boss or due to him/her is an important part of life. Thank your boss—I’m sure they’ll be surprised.