Does appreciation = authenticity?

Now almost half-way through the month, I'm finding I'm living more authentically. I started off picking a certain person to express my gratitude towards each day, but now I'm finding I'm just being more honest with everyone. If someone does something nice, I say something to honor them. When I feel someone has really helped me out, I instantly express that thankfulness. Its very refreshing. I don't know why I was so scared before to tell people how much I care, love, and enjoy who they are and what they do. I'm getting a great feeling about this months challenge :)