Appreciation Ritual

Every time we take a break for snack, usually in some beautiful place in nature, we sit in a circle together and serve each other food and drink.  One girl will pass the cookies, cheese, nuts or fruit to the girl sitting next to her, and say "I really appreciate you because..." and completes the sentence with a reflection of some of the uplifting and inspiring qualities her friend exudes.  Then this girl will do the same for the girl next to her, and so on until everyone has received food and appreciation.  This ritual is so simple, and yet so beautiful, because we are experiencing not only the gift of serving another with love, but also taking the time to focus on and draw out further the wonderful qualities that make us shine.