Last night we were dining out in Saint Paul and noticed a
couple with two young children seated nearby. The little ones were sweet and
not overly loud, with smiles on their faces the whole time. Of course, they
required attention because that is one thing you can always count on children
to need. The father was shushing them throughout the meal and seemed worried
about disrupting others dining around them. I sensed the mother becoming stressed
toward the end of their meal as the youngest (probably around 14 months) was
getting restless and needed to move out of her seat. Having been in that
situation and knowing how uncomfortable it can be, I decided a few kind words
might be appreciated. I approached their table with a smile and shared that I
found their children delightful and very well behaved and went immediately back
to my seat. I could literally see the tension leave the mother’s body as she
breathed out and her shoulders became more relaxed.
Using kind words:
- If you are complimenting someone, be specific. For example, I love that blouse on you. It complements your eyes beautifully.
- Use genuine words and expressions – people can sense when you are not sincere.
- When complimenting a stranger, be succinct – offer kind words and get back to what you were doing.
- Be grateful when someone offers you a compliment. It is kind to let folks know you welcome being appreciated.
- Avoid rejecting the compliment or downplaying kindness. (Example of what NOT to do – A friend complimented me on my hair and instead of simply being thankful, I couldn’t stop myself from rambling on about how I was not happy with the color.)
- When someone offers you kind words, offer some back if warranted.
How have you used kind words today?
Peace to you and yours - Jackie
