Showing Gratitude

My husband, Morris, and I traveled to Nigeria to attend the ninetieth birthday celebration of his only remaining uncle, as well as his uncle’s wife’s eightieth birthday, their sixty-two years of marriage, and his seventeen-year reign as king of his village.

It was a delightful experience to commemorate this momentous occasion with family and friends. Although it rained throughout the night and most of the big day, it did not dampen our spirits. I was amazed to see hundreds of well-wishers who had braved the inclement weather to be present. The event was held under huge tents in the yard, and it was impressive to listen as celebrants lavished their love and gratitude on this beloved couple. The next day I accompanied my husband and visited friends who had impacted his life as a young man. We traveled over flooded roads, rugged terrain, deep potholes, and unnamed streets to find people in four villages. It was a very difficult journey, but his presence brought them so much joy. They expressed their gratitude to him for coming such a long distance under such difficult conditions. He thanked them for impacting his life and shared gifts with them.

Among the people we visited were widows of dear friends as well as a childhood friend. Morris recalled how they had played together as children.

While in college, Morris traveled to northern Nigeria to canvass to help pay for his tuition. He stayed at the home of a man who was a telecommunications officer for the government. Through the kindness of this friend, Morris did not have to pay rent or purchase food. When it was time to return to college, his friend contributed money to help with his tuition. Now, many years later, this man had retired, suffered a stroke, and was bedridden.

Morris had the privilege of thanking this kindhearted couple for their thoughtfulness. What a joy to bring a smile to their faces. My heart was profoundly touched as I witnessed my husband’s determination to brave the horrible weather and the long bumpy journey into the interior of the country to reach each village to express his gratitude.

Showing gratitude is a blessing to both those who give it and those who receive it. Let us each bless someone with our gratitude today.

Shirley C. Iheanacho