This week I received two thank you notes in the mail.  It's always a pleasant surprise to receive a note of appreciation, especially ones written with paper and ink.  

As I've mentioned before, people are much more likely to contact you if they have a complaint than a compliment.

We could all use a few more compliments these days.

I write a lot of thank you notes.  In fact, earlier this year I wrote a short piece for the new Power of Gratitude book about writing hundreds of them. 

I don't say this to brag or pat myself on the back, but because I've learned that doing it makes me feel good. 

It doesn't matter in the least if my notes end up in the recycling bin.  They're not great works of literature.  It's the act of putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) that matters most.  It's a time to pause and reflect and to concentrate on those who make your life a little brighter.

Thank you for reading my blog and my newsletters, for liking my photos on Instagram and RTing my posts on Twitter.  Thank you for buying my handmade items and my books and trying out my jewelry tutorials.  Thank you for thinking of me when a freelance project comes across your desk.  Thank you for emailing me your random questions on jewelry design and writing.

Those actions may seem silly and small in times of major change, but all of it matters.  

You matter.  

Thank you.