In our household, the phrase “You’re welcome, you’re worth it” has become a cherished response to expressions of gratitude. This sentiment is particularly significant for us as my partner, Alex, serves in the military. Enlisting in his late twenties while already married and raising a child was a challenging decision, but ultimately, we felt it was important for someone to step up, and he was willing to do so. The experience has been rewarding for our family.
Initially, we were taken aback by how frequently strangers express their thanks to him for his service. Whether he’s running errands or commuting to work, his uniform prompts many individuals to voice their gratitude. At first, Alex felt uncomfortable with this acknowledgment. He serves as a full-time member of the Air National Guard, and while he doesn’t see himself as a combat veteran, the reality is that his role still holds value for many.
Instead of simply saying “You’re welcome,” he often responded with “Thank you for your support,” believing it was a more gracious reply. However, he later heard a fellow service member say “You’re welcome, you’re worth it” in response to gratitude, and it profoundly resonated with him. This simple phrase serves as a reminder of the inherent worthiness of every individual, and Alex has since adopted it as his go-to response.
This practice reflects the values we strive to instill in our children. While I recognize that some may prefer casual responses like “No problem,” I personally favor the traditional “You’re welcome.” We continue to teach our children the importance of saying “you’re welcome,” as it is a fundamental expression of politeness.
However, the deeper lesson we wish to impart is the essence behind “You’re worth it.” When our children hear their father affirm someone’s worth, we want them to grasp its significance. Regardless of how they choose to respond to gratitude, it is crucial they understand that kindness and generosity are essential because everyone deserves respect and compassion.
We don’t insist that our kids use this phrase in every situation, but we actively discuss the concept of inherent worth. Conversations about equality, privilege, and social justice are ongoing in our home. We aim for our children to understand that societal systems that elevate or demean individuals based on innate characteristics are unacceptable. I hope that they will act in accordance with these values as they grow.
It’s vital for our kids to recognize that every person deserves kindness and consideration simply because they are human. Acknowledging gratitude should always come from a place of genuine warmth. As adults, we understand that not everyone embodies goodness; however, I prefer to approach the world with an optimistic outlook. I believe most people have good intentions, and I hope to inspire my children to maintain this perspective.
I once heard the actress and advocate, Mia Harper, state, “Esteemable acts create self-esteem,” which resonates deeply with me. Engaging in kind actions fosters a positive self-image. By teaching our children the principle of “You’re welcome, you’re worth it,” we provide them with opportunities to perform kind acts, reinforcing their sense of self as compassionate individuals.
Ultimately, it is my goal for my children to cultivate love and appreciation for themselves, body and mind. Recognizing the worth of others will also lead them to value themselves. In this way, we all benefit when we acknowledge each other’s inherent value. I am committed to nurturing this understanding in my children.
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In summary, our family’s response of “You’re welcome, you’re worth it” embodies kindness and reinforces the idea that every individual is deserving of respect and compassion. By fostering these values in our children, we aim to cultivate a generation that recognizes the worth of others and themselves.