Accepting Compliments

I am fortunate to be surrounded by people who are continuously achieving promotions, awards and milestone accomplishments.  It's interesting to observe the different ways that they receive the congratulations and praise bestowed by interested, excited family members and friends.  At a minimum a heartfelt thank you is needed.  When it is appropriate to acknowledge the significance of the praise, that makes the other person happy too.  For instance, "I've always admired you, so your acknowledgment is ever so meaningful."  Or letting the other person know, "You've made my day!" assures them that the circle of goodwill is working well.  Though we've been taught not to toot our own horns too loudly, we must remember when we deflect or dismiss the sincere congratulatory wishes of others, we risk deflating our well-wishers and we miss the opportunity to have our accomplishments elevated by others.