The Greatest App of All – Appreciation

 ‘Bhaiyya, I have so many apps on my phone,’ said Rinku. ‘Wish I had an app that could change my life like magic. Instantly.’

‘There’s an app for that,’ said Rakesh. ‘The Appreciation App! It changes dull, boring lives into magical lives.’

Rahul and Rinku checked their phones. ‘Really?’ said Rahul. ‘Can’t find it bhaiyya. Do I have to buy it?’

‘It’s not on your phone, Rahul’ smiled Rakesh. ‘It’s already installed in you. For free. All you have to do is use it and change your life.’

‘How do we use this App bhaiyya?’ asked Rinku.

‘By simply appreciating people and things in your life,’ said Rakesh. ‘How many times have you used the App today? Yesterday? Last week?’

Rinku and Rahul looked sheepish. ‘Zero, bhaiyya. There’s nothing worth appreciating in our lives.’

‘Looks like you’re using the wrong app, the ‘Complain App’.’ said Rakesh. ‘Use the ‘Appreciation App’ instead. Ok do this. Use the App on 10 things in your life right now.’

‘Hmm,’ said Rinku. ‘I appreciate you bhaiyya, your canteen fundas, Rahul for being on this journey, Chotu’s service, Liaquat’s canteen, chai, biscuit, water, college, teachers... wow, the more I look, the more I find to appreciate.’

‘My phone,’ said Rahul. ‘Laptop, internet, WiFi, pocket money, clothes, bike, books, chairs, tables...’

‘Parents, family, friends, home, government, transport, health, nature, air, life itself…,’ added Rakesh. ‘That’s 30! And more. This is how it works. When we actively look for things to appreciate, we become aware of all the good in our life. Appreciation changes our perspective, our attitude, and our world. Tell me, do you feel better after using the App or worse?’

‘Better, bhaiyya,’ said Rinku. ‘Never thought there’s so much to appreciate in our lives.’

‘Now, convey your appreciation to the people you listed and watch more magic unfold,’ said Rakesh. ‘Parents, family, friends, everyone you meet. Call now. Look for ways to appreciate people genuinely. Everyone likes appreciation. So use it freely without holding back.’

Rinku nodded and used the App immediately. ‘Chotu, your chai is superb. And I like your service too. Always with a smile and high energy.’

Chotu’s eyes lit up.  ‘Thanks didi. Shall I get you some biscuits? They’re fresh.’

Rahul appreciated Liaquat, the canteen owner. He smiled broadly. ‘He’s very friendly,’ said Rahul. ‘Offered me a pastry too.’

‘See,’ laughed Rakesh. ‘Things are changing already.’

‘Bhaiyya, how long should we appreciate for the magic to happen?’ asked Rahul.

‘Rahul, it’s a magic key you possess,’ said Rakesh. ‘Don’t be stingy with it. The more you use it, the bigger the effect. This is one App you must use often. Friends, relationships, career, finance…appreciate all you have now, however small…and watch things change magically. And most importantly, don’t forget to appreciate yourself. Always.’

‘Thanks bhaiyya,’ said Rahul. ‘I’m the greatest. At ordering samosas.’

Pro Tip: Actively look to appreciate people and things in your life every day. Watch your relationships and your world change.

 

Exercise: Appreciate 5 people in the class right now. Call and appreciate five others. Share your experience. Make it a practice to appreciate at least three people every day.

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