It turns out that one of my co-workers is quite the detective. Barbara has been the treasurer at church for a number of years. She is very good at dealing with figures and understands the complexities of non-profit organizational finances. I didn’t know about her sleuthing abilities until recently.

Barbara was injured in a car accident that took place in a neighboring city a few weeks ago. She was transported to the hospital and missed a few days of work. Thankfully she is in the process of making a full recovery. The entire event is now a blur in her mind, with one notable exception

She remembers the man who stayed by her side as rescue crews worked feverishly to get mangled metal out of the way so they could remove her from the car safely. She thought he was a police officer. I encouraged her to contact that particular department and inquire about the officer who completed the accident report. He was kind enough to return her call, so she discovered that it was likely a firefighter on scene who provided comfort and care during this traumatic experience. Additional phone calls were made. She had several conversations with the fire chief. He examined his department’s reports, and the mystery was finally solved. Barbara found her Guardian Angel. Arrangements were made for her to meet her young and handsome firefighter.

She arrived at the station armed with all kinds of goodies and a heart full of gratitude. She simply wanted to say thank you. These guys are just not used to such behavior from the citizens they serve. I have worked with police officers and firefighters for over 20 years in all kinds of crisis events. I am very aware of the frivolous complaints they have to face on a very regular basis. Every day they are reaching out to people in crisis. Citizens feel very free to complain and frequently don’t let the truth get in the way of a good complaint. Gratitude appears to be a rarity.

How hard is it to say thank you? When someone has really gone the extra mile to provide assistance, how difficult is it to express a little gratitude? I have given myself an assignment for the week. I am going to express my appreciation to someone who has served my family in a very specific way. My boys have great teachers. There are youth leaders who have impacted their lives. The list is pretty lengthy now that I think about it. Where should I start?

Barbara calls the firefighter she went to see her Guardian Angel. I know from experience that his wings are flapping a little harder tonight. He won’t tell his co-workers, but I know that he is deeply touched. When he has a particularly bad shift, he can think of Barbara. Her gratitude will remind him that what he does is important. He shows up for his shift at the fire station so he can save a life. I think that is a pretty good plan. Isn’t it about time all of us said thank you?

Who are you going to thank this week? I don’t think Barbara is the only one who has a Guardian Angel…