In real estate, the term appreciation means “increase in value.”
Isn’t that really what we’re doing when we appreciate something? We’re savoring it, enjoying it, appreciating it. Helping it grow in value by attending to it, and – well – actively valuing it.
So appreciation expands the good of whatever it is you’re appreciating.
I like to try to remember this when I’m paying my bills.
Exchanging money is a form of expressing appreciation. In our modern society, that’s just the way we do it.
It’s no longer “thanks for the pie – here I have some extra milk,” but instead “thanks for the coffee – here’s some cash.”
But when this exchange comes from the heart, it’s rooted in the same impulse to share what we have and value what we are given by others.
When I pay my bills – or even just fork over cash – I try to remember this. When I remember (and it’s definitely not always), I try to pause and really appreciate the true value of the goods or services I’ve received.
Paying rent? Boy, am I glad I have a warm house in winter!
Making the car payment? I am so grateful for reliable transportation.
Credit card bills? Thank you, thank you, for the clothes, groceries, books, and whatever other items are on this month’s bill.
All too often, it’s easy to freak out about paying the bills. Is there enough? Will there be enough? Have I made a big money mistake somewhere?
When I turn my attention towards appreciation, it all gets a lot easier, even when the external circumstances haven’t changed.
So this is my invitation to you:
Pay bills. Say thanks.
Just like that. Easy as pie. 🙂
Let me know how it goes in the comments!
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