What I Said After Waking from Surgery—and Why It Matters

When I woke up from heart surgery, the first thing I said was “Thank you.”

I didn’t even think about it. It just came out—instinctively. And I know the whole room heard me because I caught a few quiet “Awws” from somewhere behind the machines.

Maybe the anesthesia helped loosen my tongue. But here’s what I know for sure: That moment wasn’t an accident. It was the result of something I’ve practiced—appreciation. And it’s changed everything for me.

Appreciation doesn’t just make other people feel good. It rewires us, too. Give it a try...

🧠 STEP 1: Pick 5 People

📝 Grab a sticky note or open your notes app.

👥 Write down the names of 5 people in your life:

• 👩‍🏫 A teacher

• 🧍A neighbor

• ❤️ A partner

• 📬 Your mail carrier

• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Your sibling

👣 STEP 2: Pick ONE Person

Choose just one for now.🎯 Trust your gut—who comes to mind first?

💬 STEP 3: Appreciate Them

Imagine yourself walking up to them and saying:

📌 “Hi [Name], I noticed that you…”📌 “...and I just wanted to say thank you.”

Make it specific. Keep it simple.

✅ Not: “Thanks for everything.”✅ Instead: “Thanks for doing the dishes last night—I was really tired, and it helped more than you know.”

🌈 STEP 4: Feel It

Pause. How do you feel now?😊 Joyful? Light? A little emotional?

And how might they feel? Even if they’re surprised or awkward, that’s just proof we all need more appreciation.

❤️ “You get fuller by feeding others.”

You just made the world a little better—with words.

📩 Want to make my day?

Tell me who you appreciated. I’d truly love to hear.