The Duncan Banner

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March 11, 2010

‘I appreciate you’ becomes contagious

Toni Hopper

I’ve noticed something that seems to be catching on strongly in Duncan, Oklahoma.

It’s just three little words. But wow, the impact of those three words are pretty strong. “I appreciate you.”

It seems to come up in the most natural way of conversation as someone is ending a phone call or shares information.

But I have to laugh a little because the whole catch-phrase, the first time I remember hearing it, seemed funny. And I give a co-worker credit for it.

When I heard The Banner’s own sports editor Michael Pineda end a phone conversation one day with “I appreciate you,” I really gave him a hard time about it. Sure it was in good fun, but he was so serious about telling people “I appreciate you,” that he soon had me believing he really meant it. Pineda has his moments.

Then David Laughlin joined the staff and in no time, I heard him using the same phrase.

Now I’ve noticed that readers who come into the newsroom are even using those three little words, telling reporters “I appreciate you.”

It’s like a mini daily Random Act of Kindness — but with words. I like that.

It doesn’t take much to brighten some people’s day.

This appreciation factor is happening outside of The Banner newsroom. Many of our readers are aware that we are social network addicts. I believe every one of the newsroom staff has a facebook page. The Banner has its own fan page.

It’s opened up many doors and I think it’s helped us connect better with the public. It’s nice to open up an e-mail and read compliments for a story that might have been published a day or so earlier.

But this isn’t a column about that.

This is to recognize a small but growing group on facebook that was started in Duncan by an individual who was sparked by an idea of a friend.

“People Who Impressed Me Today” isn’t about bragging on one’s self, but is dedicated to sharing about others who have done simple things throughout the day that have left impressions on those around them.

Names aren’t used when talking about the people, but it’s so refreshing to see the daily comments. It’s little things too.

One person might comment about their neighbor going above and beyond to help someone, or a child who is struggling with life, but always keeps smiling and spreading positiveness around. Another might post they appreciate a workout buddy keeping them on track.

There’s more than 200 fans of the page, but at the time being only a few regular posters. I’m sure most of them are local residents, but it’s out there for anyone to join.

Really, what a neat concept. A fan page that puts a positive light on our community. Imagine spending just a few minutes each day on that page, whether to read the latest posts or share one of your own. Making the time count for something other than “buying tomato plants at Farmville.”

By the way, I tried that game, never got it.

Finally gave up on it and am so glad I did. If I am going to play games, it better be board games like Scrabble or Yahtzee — some of you might remember those, sitting around the table with family and friends, laughing and having a great time.

Now those were definitely times of social networking. I remember when I was little, my mom always had friends over and they played Yahtzee a couple times a week. It’s a good memory to have.

I guess you could say it was a “People Who Impressed Me” moment from my childhood, but I never looked at it that way before.

At the end of the day, just reflect on who impressed you. Maybe it was your spouse or even your child. Then take the time to tell them “I appreciate you.”

It may be the moment that stays with them forever. And it didn’t cost you a thing. And if you read my column, then I most definitely appreciate you. Thanks!



— Toni Hopper is a reporter for The Duncan Banner. She can be reached at 580-255-5354, Ext. 132 or by e-mail at: toni.hopper@duncanbanner.com.

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