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Appreciate the Unappreciated

My 19 year old daughter was the victim of an assault in December of 2008. This was a very traumatic event, but because of her inner strength she rose above it. As a victim she was potentially qualified to receive financial victim assistance, which was available through a victim advocacy program in our State. This would help pay for her outstanding doctor bills, and so we applied for it. She was initially denied, and having taught her never to just accept things, she requested an appeal. My daughter went to this appeal hearing, and had to face 9 adults, answer many difficult questions, and convince them she was worthy of the grant'but this isn't the moral of this story.

My daughter was very brave, and did an incredible job in presenting her case to the board. When appropriate I chimed in trying to support her as her parent. What happened at the end however, amazed both of us. At the very end I told the board that, no matter what their decision ends up as, we sincerely appreciated their time for listening to us, and that we also appreciated the program they offered. You would not believe the shock and disbelief that appeared on each of their faces! It was as if they had never been thanked before!

It occurred to my daughter and I that they were in a position where they would rarely if ever receive thanks, despite their noble goal of helping victims. Appreciating the unappreciated made all of us feel good despite the dreadful situation! Do not forget to give appreciation to others when due, especially when it is unexpected!

Story was submitted anonymously