give a good word

It’s wild what a good word can do.

The power of positive pouring out of your mouth.

I’ve unexpectedly teared up before (well, lots of times, alright) at the sound of kind words I didn’t know I needed to hear.

Text messages with encouragement.

A hand on the shoulder at a social function, a direct look into the eyes and a couple of sentences about something you’re doing right, instead of the stack of things your brain says you are doing wrong.

A letter that arrives in the mail with a hand written word expressing how a friend sees you with eyes you would never use to see yourself.

It’s the most remarkable sensation.

The lifting of spirit and heart and mind, elevated to a new height, through the simple words of kindness, thoughtfulness, hope.

Use your words, friends.

Use them for good.

They really do matter.

You’ve got this power – right at the tip of your tongue – to impart this powerful game changer.  To shine light in the dark.  To speak words praiseworthy and true, encouraging and helpful.

Do this for your friends.

Do this for strangers.

I love watching a stranger shift their expression when they hear a compliment offered, an unexpected gift that changes the course of their day.

Make this a habit.

This offering of good words.