Saying Thank You

Was it just once instance, or is teaching children to say "thank you" disappearing from our culture? Last evening at a thriving ice cream estblishment, while standing near the serving windows enjoying my "Kiddie" almond joy cone, I witnessed a constant stream of families, coaches and youngsters in the 9-12 range come for a post-game treat, it appeared. What became glaringly obvious to me was that not one of these children said "thank you" when the parent or coach handed them their cup or cone and not one parent insisted on a "thank you." Only one parent told his son to say "thank you" to the teen who served the cup directly to him. There was definitely something missing. It may be a generational or family custom, but insistance on saying "thank you" even to (should be especially to) a parent was the order of the day. "Take nothing for granted...always express your gratitude" was a family value, and certainly ranks high among our Marist values. Perhaps in addition to "making Jesus known and loved", our mission must include some of these basic values and "civilities" that are being lost in the "me culture" of today.
Along these lines, it is an honor to offer a word of gratitude to three Board members who have completed their nine year terms and were appropriately thanked at last night's meeting: Jack Shaw, former president for at least four years, Heather Annaloro, and Arthur Richter, all of whom having served with fidelity and zeal; Tom Burkardt, who will remain on the Board, completed his two year term as chairman. To them, a hearty "thank you" for their dedication and selfless sharing of their skills and talents.
Bro. Rene