MISSION, Kan. /PRNewswire/ — The holidays are just the right time to thank
those unsung heroes who help make our lives better every day. According to a
nationwide poll, Americans cite neighbors and teachers as the people most likely
to deserve end-of-year appreciation. Also noted worthy by respondents are
coworkers, childcare providers, house cleaners, bosses, postal workers, clergy,
healthcare workers, administrative assistants, pet sitters and crossing guards.
M.J. Ryan, author of books such as “Random Acts of Kindness” and “Attitudes of
Gratitude,” and her newest book, “Adaptability,” notes that the exchange of
gifts widens our network of friends and builds stronger interpersonal
connections, which we inherently desire, particularly in times of stress and
uncertainty. “The influence of personal exchanges is even more meaningful today,
as we rely on more virtual ways of connecting with one another every day,” says
Ryan.
Ryan suggests flowers as an easy, yet meaningful way to show thanks during the
holidays. “There is something special about giving a gift of beauty that shows
truly how much you care,” says Ryan. “Flowers are cheerful and will be displayed
as a constant reminder of your gratitude.”
Here are recommendations for holiday floral gifts from the Society of American
Florists, for the unsung heroes in your life. For more ideas and advice, ask
your local florist.
Neighbors – Treat a great neighbor to a bouquet of flowers that will make their
foyer fragrant. You’ll even get to watch their eyes light up as the delivery
truck pulls up.
Teachers – Ask your florist for a low clustered arrangement that a teacher can
keep on their desk and still keep an eye on the class. The flowers will elicit
smiles from the entire classroom.
Co-workers – Thank an office mate who has been supportive throughout the year
with a bunch of multi-colored tulips or other flowers that will brighten up
traditionally neutral office walls.
Childcare providers – A great floral gift would be a sweet hand-tied bouquet
presented by your little ones. Choose a monochromatic (all one color) look that
is pleasing to the eye.
House cleaners – Give your house cleaner a lush flowering plant to make their
own home look and feel special.
Bosses – A mixed flower arrangement is appropriate for any boss. Choose red,
gold and purple-colored flowers which symbolize accomplishment, wealth and good
fortune.
“This holiday season, treat your unsung heroes to the universal symbol of
friendship and caring – flowers,” says Ryan. “The people who support you every
day are likely to feel thanked long after they receive them.”
Rutgers University research conducted by psychologist Jeannette Haviland-Jones,
Ph.D., reveals those who send flowers, in comparison to other gifts, are viewed
as successful, caring, and emotionally intelligent people. According to the lead
researcher, the findings show flowers have evolved to activate positive
responses from people and that each bloom has the potential to put a smile on
our face.
For more information on flowers, including a searchable directory of local
professional florists, visit aboutflowers.com
Source:
Society of American Florists
