This photo has nothing to do with my story, but it sure bring joy to me. This was taken on a trip to Sweden before we toured the Vasa Museum.
Earlier this week a friend of mine shared an article titled, “19 Things I hope I’ve taught my daughter before her 18th birthday”. I sent the link to my two older children (daughter AND son) and even read the highlights to the whole family. Sounds like words I’ve told my children before, but when it comes from someone else…you know.
In the article the author penned this:
The saying goes, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” But the reverse is true, too. Everyone loves a genuine compliment. Too many times we are quick to say the bad stuff but forget to mention the positives. If you think someone has a great smile or is wearing a cool shirt, say so.
I totally agree!
The article’s sentiments kept resonating in my head all week.
This morning I even shared the concept of a genuine compliment with my youngest as I was driving him to school.
Well, I had the opportunity to have “Storytime with Shuff” in one of my classes yesterday regarding a funny incident that occurred with me yesterday morning. It tied in perfectly with “if you have something nice to say, then say it” mentality. I elaborated on the “everyone loves a genuine compliment” and encouraged them to do the same.
Here you go…”Storytime with Shuff”
This morning I was standing in the Publix Pharmacy line. This precious eighty-two year old sneaked up behind me, pushed her buggy up next to me, and said so sincerely, “You have beautiful legs.” I had to laugh because I had JUST looked down at my legs and thought, “Lordy mercy, I need to shave. And this booboo on my chin looks awful. My veins are really shining on my right calf.”
I replied to her, “Oh my, thank you. I used to.”
She asked about my age and she informed me of her’s. We chatted about where she was from, how her father used to own a shoe making store in Bradenton, how she met her current husband after she became a widow (which her current actually used to be her high school sweetheart), and on and on. We laughed. She kept hugging me, and I her.
Sweet Aubrey even mentioned how people call her “Audacious Aubrey”. Mrs. Aubrey would compliment me on my legs again between stories. She even expressed how she has dementia. When she said that I was like, “That’s why you think I have nice legs.” LOL!
Our encounter was brief, yet well informing, full of laughter, and an emotion of instant love for this lady that I just can’t explain. She made my day!
This story went on to demonstrate how we all truly do appreciate compliments, even when WE don’t think they are warranted. I wasn’t going to steal her joy. And she brought much joy to me.
After I shared this story with my students I went around the room and gave example compliments to various students. The smiles and joy were contagious. I believe they saw the value of “When you have something nice to say, then say it” lesson.
So, the next time you admire someone’s smile, tell them. You think your friend’s outfit is flattering on them, let them know. The meal you ate was delicious, give kudos to the chef. Someone tells you that you have nice legs, hug them and/or simply say thank you.
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” Luke 6:31
“Do for others what you would want them to do for you. This is the meaning of the Law of Moses and the teaching of the prophets.” Matthew7:12
Have a fabulous day! And…has anyone told you that that smile looks great on you? Keep smiling.
I pray that you will enjoy soaking up THE SON every moment of each day. –Stephanie
