A Kind Word Makes One’s Day

It’s been said that we should show kindness to people whom we meet along the way because we don’t know what they are going through. It is in this line of thinking that I would like to share this beautiful and profound reminder written by Elizabeth George in her book “ A Woman After God’s Own Heart”:

“We all have chance meetings… but you and I both know there’s really no such thing. God arranges these encounters. When they occur we may only have a few seconds to determine what to do or say. Be prepared. Have ready words of encouragement and appreciation. “What can I give this person? A word of encouragement? A listening ear? A comforting touch? A big smile and an enthusiastic hello?

“People are all around us – family, friends, and strangers. Who knows what’s going on in their lives. Who knows the sadness, the hardships, the heartaches, the trials. Do you ever consider your words and actions in these brief encounters as ministry? God may use you to give people the only kind words they’ll receive today… or the only gentle hugs.”

I am reminded of a story of a young teenager who had been verbally abused by her mother. She called her names to the point that she felt she was worthless. Her self-esteem dropped to zero. One day, her life changed.  In the midst of a field trip, her teacher just exclaimed, “You know what, you got two beautiful, green eyes.” In that moment, her spirit was lifted. It was in those words that she regained her confidence and realized that she was not ugly after all as painted by her mother.

There are times in our life when we meet along the lane people who are “emotional vampires.” They spit tactless comments and our day is ruined. According to Don Ruiz Miguel, in his book “The Four Agreement,” this kind of people has an ax to grind against the world. They throw us their own “personal garbage” because they are unhappy and bitter. By making unfavorable remarks, they feel they have shared their misery.  Hence, Ruiz said, “Be wary of these people. They are not worth your salt. If you meet them, just smile and walk away.”

Here are some food-for-thought from pinterest.com website:

•             “Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.” 

•             “Our days are happier when we give people a bit of our heart rather than a peace of our mind.”

•             “Be the reason someone smiles today.”

•             “One kind word can change someone’s entire day.”

•             Don’t look down on anyone unless you are helping them.”

•             “Be the person that makes others feel special. Be known for your kindness and grace.”

•             “Perhaps you will forget tomorrow the kind words you say today, but the recipient will remember them for a lifetime.”