Do you know that you are so kind?

.. "And I wouldlike to say thank you for being such a good friend"..

One wonderful trait that my close friends and I have tried to inculcate is the habit of appreciation, compliments, affirmation and praise. We are learning that people are more comfortable and drawn to you when you know how to say good things about them and make them feel good about themselves.

Sometimes, we tend to forget to say nice things about people that are close to us or that are around us. We think it, we sometimes show it that we like/love them and appreciate them but we neglect to say it as often as possible. I am not saying that you should tell lies or make up stories to make someone feel good about themselves, instead I have come to realise that when you look out for the good in people, there's always something good to find.

In life, learn to celebrate people. Learn to be a way-maker, an enabler for others. Push yourself to say positive things about yourself and about others (even/and especially in their presence). It is a huge boost to their self-esteem and improves their self confidence.

When someone does something nice or good to you, let them know "Oh Sheila, thanks for helping out the other day, you're so thoughtful'. Thank AND compliment.

I used to find it quite difficult to do, as from my background, you only 'show' people and they 'just know' that you think highly of them. While that is good in itself, I tell you that it is even better when your mouth opens to express what you feel inside.. For me, it has strengthened relationships, opened doors and granted me favour.

You see, God in whose image we are made in, loves compliments! He loves when you tell Him nice things, pleasant things. He absolutely cherishes it. In fact if you are one to do it consistently, He makes His home with you. It is what we normally refer to as PRAISE and in that He dwells in and inhabits. In fact, God also reciprocates, as His word is filled with such pleasant words of affirmation for us.. 'You are fearfully and wonderfully made', 'Apple of my eyes', 'Light of the world' etc..
It comes as no surprise then that you and I also love when people say good and complimentray things. Not flattery, just appropriate appreciation.


As we start our week, I urge you to have 'positive mouth diarrhea'. let your lips drip with compliments and thanks for people around you.. Family, friends, husband, children, parents, boss, strangers, person on the till, security guard etc... And watch what happens....

God bless you wonderful peeps :-) xx