In Others’ Words: In Praise of Others

My mother taught me how to compliment people. Not the “how to” so much as the “why.”

I remember running errands with her when I was a young girl. Usually one of the errands was a stop at the grocery store. My mom always found a way to say something nice to the cashier or to someone else as we passed them in the aisle.

Something like: “I like your hair.” Or maybe, “You have a nice smile.” Or she’d just engage them in a few minutes of conversation and make them feel noticed, and then say “thank you” before we headed out of the store to our car.

No fanfare. No hoopla. But I’m sure her words made a difference in those peoples’ lives.

I try to notice others when I’m out and about running errands — like the young woman in the bank the other day. I asked about her tattoo and learned that she’s Native American and has thirteen siblings. And yes, she has a lovely smile, too. I also complimented a woman with blue highlights in her hair. Not my style, but it looked fun on her — and we both walked on smiling.

No fanfare. No hoopla. But I hope my words made a little difference in those peoples’ lives — like my mother taught me to do.

In Your Words: When has a little praise gone a great ways in your life? Wouldn’t it be fun to look for a chance to compliment someone today? To connect with someone in an unexpected way and make a difference in their life — maybe bring a smile to their face? Go ahead, have some fun!

In Others’ Words: In Praise of Others #InOthersWords #lifequotes #relationships
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“A little praise goes a great ways.” #quotes #RalphWaldoEmerson #relationships
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