Never underestimate the power of a kind word. I was the recipient of just those kind words this week. A coworker told me how they appreciate my positivity and that I was a "breath of fresh air". Another coworker said I was "a ray of sunshine". When I heard those simple, small compliments, I felt such joy in my heart. I am glad I was able to overcome my sleepiness today to be that ray of sunshine! The hubs was up most of the night coughing out a lung! Those words drove away any grumpiness I had starting today.
You would never think that something simple would make such an impact. But yet some people only complain and say hurtful things to bring others down. I never understood why some people just enjoy hurting others. Well, I can say I have been on the other side of both, receiving hurtful words and receiving kind words. I have to say that the kind words do make a difference in how you feel. I had also been that person that complained a lot. In the past, when stressed at work, I would complain. It wasn't pretty and I am not proud of that. I complained mostly because I didn't have a lot of control of certain situations. I learned that if you do not have any positivity growing in your life, it is difficult to give to others. It just took awhile for me to realize this and make the changes I needed.
What changes did I make? Well, I started with taking it to God in prayer. Fully trusting him to guide me in my decisions. The BIG scary decision to change positions at work was the start. That giant leap of faith and trust that God will support me and guide me, was the foundation of my new joy. I now look for joy and happiness in everything I do. I find myself loving myself more and the person I am. I no longer hate who I was becoming, but changing who I am...my mind, my spirit. I now have found a way to start liking and loving the person I am.
So when you see someone complaining or a little grumpy, they may just need a kind word to turn it all around. You never know what someone is going through and they may not want to let anyone know, but the stress of it may be shown through anger or complaining. The "it" they may be going through may be from work, family trauma, health concerns.
Scatter those compliments like confetti. Just the small things that are noticed make a big difference. Not only will you build up others, but you will also be on the receiving end of lifting up someone. And nothing feels better than being a part of helping others.
Ephesians 4:32 instructs, "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."
Romans 12:10: "Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor."
Love to all,
