Giving thanks can mean more than expected

I saw a man picking up garbage in a parking lot.

He obviously wasn't employed by the business who used the parking lot. He was dressed in regular clothes. I thought it was really nice of him.

Just seeing him do something like that, probably without thanks, made me think about how there are several people who do jobs and deeds that are necessary but go without any thanks for the most part.

I've never watched the movie "Pay it Forward," but I think I can guess what it's about.

So I decided to "pay it forward" last week.

I went to businesses and people who have helped me in one way or another and dropped off treats and said "thank you."

It was awesome. It felt really good to do and it seemed obvious the deed was appreciated. It was unexpected and who doesn't like free candy?

It only took a few minutes and a few bucks to put a smile on a few people's faces and to let them know they are appreciated.

I think we get bogged down with complaining about everything rather than recognizing when someone does something nice for us.

I remember a few weeks ago, I was at a gas station and for some reason I could not get the pump to work. The fuel attendant didn't get annoyed with me and spent several minutes trying to resolve the situation so I could pump some gas.

Although the act was small, it was kind and very appreciated.

While I was dropping off treats to people, the reactions I got were funny. Some people thought it was cool and some people were confused. One person asked me if I was serious, like I was making fun of them.

Overall the experience was incredible and I think I will keep doing it every now and then.

I hope other people will give it a try.

Candice Boutilier is the Columbia Basin Herald cities and politics reporter. Her thanks to co-workers were well received, especially the homemade brownies.