But wouldn't that be pretty cool?
I mean I love the concept of Random Acts of Kindness. But sometimes paying anonymously for someone's meal is simply money and good intentions. Words, on the other hand, are both cheap and powerful. They cost a user time and thought. And they can make a receiver's day, week, month or even life.
Look for someone, anyone, to say something kind or encouraging to. Don't praise and pull out the dusty list form the 90's that tells you the 100 best ways to praise a child. Instead. Focus on who they are, and what makes them seem to thrive. Don't kindly mention how cute an outfit is, that doesn't count. Instead look beneath that and find something that is them, and then remind them of that important fact about themselves. Want examples? Tell someone whom you love that knowing them has added color and laughter and joy to your life and that you are grateful to have them in your life. Or if you see a mom struggling to love her kids the best way she can in spite of hardships, tell her you see her struggle and that she's doing a good job. One of the best compliments I ever got as a mom was when someone told me that my kids were old-fashioned kids, respectful, polite, interested in life, and sweet. That clearly left a mark since they are all adults now and I still remember that comment. If someone you work with is a hard worker and dependable, tell them just that.
Your words are powerful tools to change lives. Try it.
