Thanks for running our marathon

Having only run a small number of marathons in comparison to other runners, my perspective is not as broad as most. However, during my most recent OBX marathon the people along the course were saying something that I hadn't heard while running any other marathons.

Typically, people along the course yell encouragement to the runners as they pass them by. Often, the phrases might be "Good Job", "Looking Good", "Almost there", "Finish Strong", "finish is just ahead" to list a few.

The people along the OBX course were shouting something different. They yelled "thanks for running our marathon". How different is that?

When people use a word that I am not familiar or say something unique, my ears will suddenly close around what they are saying. Words used outside the norm are used for a specific reason and attention should be drawn to them. These people definitely captured my attention.

In this case, those five little words can make all the difference in one's day.

Far too often the word "thanks" comes flowing out of our mouths with no explanation. Making it almost to a point where most people expect it and all the while ignoring it.

But when one adds an explanation to the end of the word "thanks", there is clearly a difference. The explanation provides the person on the receiving end with a clear and specific reason for your appreciation. Intern, they will get that "warm glow" that comes knowing that someone is really acknowledging their efforts.

To the people along the OBX course last Sunday morning, I want to say "thanks for making me feel at home in your community." even if it was for the day.

For those of you reading my post today instead of giving the short "thanks" to someone, try giving the long "thanks …….." to someone and see how much better that it makes them feel.

 

 

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The Cool Down Runner