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How to Express Your Gratitude as a Paulinian

By: Alex Jillian Adanza | September 21, 2022

How lucky are we to be able to express ourselves in many ways?

In various moments of our life, we express our gratitude to those who grant us a favor, lend us a hand, or give us something we want or need. And our most common expression is “Thank You” or “Salamat.” But have you ever wondered how we can say “Thank You” without actually saying it?

Receiving is one example of this. Gratitude without words comes with acceptance and brings about a feeling of positivity that resonates and creates a luminous aura for everyone. Some people think that rejecting one’s offer or present is polite — a common but misguided Filipino trait. However, receiving can also be an act of gratitude because it shows that we appreciate the giver’s efforts. We need to show our appreciation and assurance that we are thankful for what we have received.

If receiving is gratitude, then we cannot leave out giving as another, actually better, form of gratitude. This is an admirable form of gratitude to those who have been generous to us. In many instances, we hear more about people who give rather than those who receive. Giving a present that is suited to a person shows how important the little details are for the people who have impacted our lives.

We should take into account all the low-key people out there. Some people find saying “Thank you” a bit too trite, so they express their gratitude through actions. Some would cook a surprise breakfast, do the laundry, or change the bed sheets to reciprocate the kindness given to them.

If we experience sadness, we need someone who will listen openly and accept our shortcomings without judgment. We all have our wingmen. Their presence comforts us. They should know that we are thankful to them for staying by our side through good and bad times. Because not everything needs to be said, some things are better left unspoken, for they carry the most genuine meanings.

As Paulinians returning to the in-person setting, we would also like to show our gratitude to various people. For us, it may be simple, but to all our hard-working staff, it is special. Here are some ways to express your gratitude to the Paulinian community.

Step 1: Saludo sa inyo, Kuya/Ate Guard!

Once you enter the Malvar or Pedro Gil Gate, you will receive a small piece of paper to fill out with your information, and sometimes when you doubt what to put, Kuya or Ate Guard is willing to help. Never forget to say “Thank You” when you receive and give back the form!

Step 2: Salamat po sa kasipagan!

This is a common experience in our Tipol moments. When we go to the bathroom, sometimes it is cleaning time. Take into consideration our Ates and Kuyas, who tirelessly keep everything spotless for us. Let us give due credit to all the maintenance staff, including those who are in-charge of the school canteen for tirelessly serving us food. Never forget to be kind towards them!

Step 3: Pagpatuloy niyo lang po ang serbisyo!

Along the hallways of SPU Manila, we meet people from the different offices. Make sure to stop and greet them with a “Good morning/afternoon po!” This simple gesture makes us appreciative Paulinians. Even the smallest greetings can be a ray of sunshine to other people.

Step 4: Mahal po namin kayo, salamat!

It is very uplifting to see our Sisters around the campus. While they are not with us in our classes, their efforts to sustain the Paulinian community must not be overlooked. Always greet them enthusiastically and respectfully. Remember, our Sisters keep St. Paul University Manila a safe space for all of us.

Step 5: Nakakataba po ng puso ang inyong pag-aalaga, salamat po!

In the classroom setting, let us not forget to express gratitude to our teachers! They teach us every day for us to gain knowledge, experience, and competencies that we will use for life. They are our second parents in the institution, our second home, creating a good environment for us all to work in harmony.

Step 6: Padayon, mga kaklase! Kaya natin ‘to.

Lastly, express your appreciation for your classmates. Indeed, without them, our experience in school will not be the same. They help us when we find the lessons difficult and make us laugh when we are sad or tired.

The smallest things matter, so go, tell them “Thank you!” while you can.