Someday I'll tell them

I recall attending a memorial service for someone I had met for one time briefly. Because I did not have the emotional attachment to the person who had died, I sat in the chapel as more of an observer of the rituals we attach to death. For two and a half hours one person after another shared how the woman had touched his or her life. There was a mixture of laughter and tears as personal anecdotes were disclosed to those attending. I was touched by the common theme of generosity and caring. The woman had a great gift in learning the dates of birthdays of the people she met and would send cards and gifts to acknowledge their occurrence. People in attendance were genuinely touched by her acts of thoughtfulness. As I sat there I wondered how many of these people had commented to the woman about how much this meant to them. How many times do we say nothing perhaps thinking that it is not the right time to say anything. Would this woman's life been any fuller if people had taken time to express their appreciation for these small acts of kindness? Who would you share your appreciation with today for the special gifts they pass on to others?