The Appreciation Wall: A Simple Act of Kindness

By Rukhsar Balkhi  ’23

Students at Bard College had the chance to express gratitude for the women in their lives by adding to a wall of kindness built in the Bertelsmann Campus Center.

To convey thanks for the work, support, and assistance women contribute to their lives, students wrote messages of appreciation on post-it notes and put them up on a wall. Loving, kind and sometimes funny notes cover the wall. Some were written in other languages. Here are a couple of examples:

• “أحبك أمي” (I love you, Mom)
• “To the strong Palestinian women, We love you” Petro

Women are an integral part of our lives, and they play an essential role in shaping us into who we are. Whether it's our mothers, sisters, daughters, wives, girlfriends, or female friends, they contribute immensely to our lives. It's important to appreciate the women in your life and to let them know how much they mean to you. In our busy lives, we often forget to say thank you, sorry, or appreciate our loved ones. 

I have always believed small actions can have a big impact, which is why I thought of creating the wall. The appreciation wall acts as a constant reminder of the courage and importance of women in our lives.

Here are more of the messages from Bard students:

• “Bella, you are much stronger and kinder than you know. Thank you for your friendship and sisterhood. Love you forever.”
• “Happy to have the chance to write for you Mama, I love you. Thank you for being my supporting system.” Abbu
• “Thanks for being the most wonderful person in the world” Annie
• “Thank you for all the support and help Mom.”
• “Women are the reason for existence. Our life will never be complete without you” Muj
• “Samir, Sapid you are my inspiration” Rb
• “I am sorry for not expressing my feelings always but I love you and appreciate you the most” Jen

It was encouraging to see students and members of the Bard community participate and write the comments with joy and passion. Students visit the location frequently throughout the day. When I noticed students reading the messages while standing in front of the wall, it felt good.

I wanted to deliver the message that by appreciating the women in your life, you're acknowledging the emotional support they provide and the impact it has on your life. You’re acknowledging their ability to communicate effectively and the positive impact it has on your relationship, and you're opening yourself up to new ideas and ways of thinking.

Post Date: 04-04-2023