Our daughter, Wende, is a production coordinator for commercials and films. Last week she worked with an eleven-camera television crew. As she sat with the director in the production booth she was amazed by his ability to keep-up with eleven monitors and give rapid fire instructions to the camera operators.
She was even more impressed with his sincere concern for the crew. When a camera got an especially good shot he would praise the operator: "Beautiful shot, Paul"; "Wonderful approach, Sally"; "You made those colors bounce, Frank."
He was effusive with praise when merited and withheld comments when a shot did not meet his expectations. He took the blame when something went wrong.
Many years ago there was a study in which employees given a choice between a raise and an appreciative manager opted for appreciation over money. This study has been replicated several times with the same results.
We all crave appreciation, but how often do we praise and thank others?
I suspect that the electronic gadgetry that pervades our lives has reduced our sensitivity to the civil needs of others. As expressions of gratitude diminish so do compassion and respect.
But wait! Our civility is not crumbling. Just as in Wende's example I can recite many encounters of thoughtfulness and kindness motivated by an empathetic regard for the feelings of others. Bitterness and vitriol is not nearly as pervasive as social media comments would make us think.
Generosity, gratitude, appreciation, kindness and consideration outnumber vile remarks and rancor at every turn. And I am grateful for that.
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