A couple of years ago in preparing for a presentation to graduate students on professionalism, I asked a range of professionals the most common practice that folks new to the work force routinely violate.  The third most frequent response was not acknowledging the work of others or thanking them for their contribution to a project.

I find this comes through in the recovery community as well:

• I tend to take for granted the rooms where 12-step meetings take place, though I know the “rent” charged by the churches or other venues is well below the market value.
• Over the past few years, I have come to take for granted that someone will set-up for the meeting, make certain that supplies are on hand.
• Although I have made amends to many people over the years, I have thanked far fewer for their patience and support in my recovery process.

As we enter into 2015, I will strive to be more intentional in thanking those people, places, and things that are instrumental to my recovery.