A janitor got bawled out in the office the other day.

A rich executive lost his cool at the Latina janitor who had mistakenly thrown out some really important papers. The tirade was ruthless. The executive mocked, ridiculed, and made fun of the janitor. She left in tears.

On his ride home the executive owned up to his a mistake: he had overstepped. But he rationalized, justified, and simply let other thoughts take over. He buried his guilt.

That’s why he was surprised the next day when he found a small bouquet of dandelions in a coffee cup on his desk. There was no note. When the janitor came in to empty his trash later, the executive knew where they had come from.

“Are these from you?” he said.

“Yes,” she said.

“But why did you give them to me? I think I’m the one who owes you something.”

“I know,” she said. “I figured you would want to say you’re sorry and would probably have a hard time doing it. And my father always said peace and gratitude go hand in hand.”

When we think appreciative thoughts about the less than perfect relationships that surround us they can become more peaceful. Healing comes. Restoration emerges. Reconciliation happens. Approach the imperfect with gratitude. Miracles await.