Sending Thanks to a (former) Roommate – Gratitude Project

Here I am with friends from seminary at a redwoods park. Left to Right: Hardeep, Janet, Susan (me), Janelle

While attending seminary I met a scholarly, tenacious, fun-loving redhead, Janelle. We had a few classes together and since there were few women in them, we tended to become partners. Soon a friendship grew and she was even my roommate for too short of a time.

After seminary we both moved on to our next step. I went on full-time staff at a church. My friend went on to care for her grandparents. She has put her “career” goals on hold for now.

Below is part of my gratitude note to her.

Janelle, you could have gone in a different (scholarly) direction after seminary. But you didn’t. You listened to God and moved to be near your grandparents in order to care for them. And as they age there have been more and more responsibilities and stresses.

Thanks, for faithfully handling all these with grace and humour. Your example shows a watching world of what love in action looks like and of course, this love points back to God.

I just wanted to let you know that you motivate me to be a better version of myself.

I’ll continue praying for you.

With Gratitude, Susan, who is looking forward to being your roomie again – either in this life or the next

I am writing at least 36 letters expressing my gratitude. And I want to pray for them on that day as well. Go here for the original post and list of recipients. I am writing about it here in hopes that it spurs someone on to write their own gratitude letters.

Your Turn . . . Do you have a roommate (former or current) that you could write a note of gratitude to? Why not do so and send it today?

Related Posts . . . 

• 10 “A” Type Letters – I’m Choosing Appreciation
• Letter Writing Meme Take Two
• Personal Gratitude Prevents Burnout