On Saying “Thank You”

In times past I would often dilute a “Thank you” with a comment that undermined my gratitude. “Thanks for dinner.  The mashed potatoes were almost as good as last time.”  While that might seem rude, I never intended it to be. I was certainly influenced by my father who was reluctant to ever pay me an unconditional compliment, lest I get a “big head” and stop trying.

Over the years I have learned to say a heartfelt “Thank you,” without adding any additional commentary that might detract.

In thinking back over this year, and others, I realize, I have a number of wholehearted thank you’s I’d like to share.  Additional commentary is only for elaboration – to expand on my gratitude – of which I have an abundance.

Thank you to Daveen.  You take such good care of me, and your love is clear and consistent.  You are the best life partner I could ever have, and I am grateful for your smile, your laughter, and your sense of humor.  And also for your incredible memory.

Thank you to the entire team at ACF.  Over the past weekend Stacie and Dayna organized the best annual meeting that ACF has ever had.  It is my pleasure to work daily with such a thoughtful, dedicated, and effective team.

Thank you to my family.  We always support each other in so many ways, both small and large.  Thank you for your time, your attention, and your love.

Thank you to Tim. You have expanded and improved our literary magazine Rattle far beyond the confines of my imagination.

Thank you to my mom.  I will always remember our conversations, my snacks, and the time we spent together every afternoon after I came home from school until we sat down for family dinner.

Thank you to my dad.  You taught me about handling money, being responsible, and you were a unique and surpassingly effective teacher both for me and for your many music students.

Thank you to my brother.  David. I will always remember your love and dedication in taking care of me, despite my taking advantage of you when we were young.  But what are younger brothers for?

Thank you to Nancy, for your love and friendship and for working together and supporting each other in achieving our goals ever since we met in a USC writing workshop more than 30 years ago.

Thank you to Professor Wicks, my contract professor in law school.  You called me into your office to tell me I had a lot of ability – but wasn’t working nearly to my potential.

Thank you to Dr. Leonard Ratner, my constitutional law professor.  You approved my required “extra credit” paper, even though we both knew it was a slap-dash effort, just in time for me to sit for the bar exam.

Thank you to all my teachers.  You are many, and often don’t receive nearly enough appreciation for all you do.

Thank you to Jim Leisner, managing partner at Peat Marwick, where I began my career.  You were the first to tell me that white socks were not exactly professional business attire.

Thank you to everyone else who should be on this list.  I hope you know who you are, and I am grateful beyond measure for your help along this often-challenging journey through life.

Thank you, dear readers, and best wishes to all.

Alan