Recently, we went to a resort in Orlando and had several surprise experiences related to thankfulness. Here is an interesting example.

It was late. We were tired. We had spent the day getting in enough steps to clear our walk calendar for a week or more. The best choice for food was the restaurant closest to the room. It was an excellent restaurant in the resort where we stayed.

We were greeted by the hostess in whom my daughter confided all her food allergies in the hope she could find something to eat. Her allergies are rough and could easily cause a trip to the hospital. Our waiter arrived with the written list in hand and coached her through the menu, checking with the chef over any questions. It was one of the most relaxing meals in a long time.

The next morning we went back for breakfast. It was the same level of care and more. My daughter picked up something from the buffet that might be dangerous. Our waiter spotted it while passing by, told her, took her plate, replaced all that she had that was within the restraints, and went about his business as though it was nothing. We were stunned.

I called for the manager, and watched my waiter’s eyes show horror and anxiety, so I called him over to hear. I paid them the compliments they were due regarding the care and conscientiousness we were shown.

Here is the surprise. All were ready for a complaint and were geared for it. You could see the shift in the body language and the focus to bear up to the inevitable. You could see them inwardly searching for a way to make peace and make right. They had stiffened as for an assault. They were shocked and were completely unprepared for compliments and appreciation. They began to scramble as though they were in unfamiliar territory. I was as surprised as they because their care seemed to be normal to their operation.

The same thing happened at check out. I wanted the resort to know about the service of one of their restaurants. The scene was repeated, gearing for an assault and complete unreadiness for a compliment.

The moment challenged me because I live in a society in which complaint is the norm and gratitude is not. I was excited to have surprised them with joy and reflective to consider how many times I take others for granted and fail to recognize their efforts on my behalf. I must study the implications of 1 Thessalonians 5:15 and 18 which say, “15. See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. 18. give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” Eastern Standard Version.