Month: March 2019

“Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.” This quotation by Mother Teresa is a reminder of something all of us can readily do that has a positive effect on other people: taking a minute to say something thoughtful.

Two words that I appreciate hearing are “Thank you.” There are many interactions among people, including family members and coworkers, where this simple acknowledgment means a lot. Saying “thank you” shows we don’t take for granted what another person has done for us. Other examples of kind words are complimenting people on a job well done, encouraging people who are working toward a goal, and giving words of comfort to someone who is grieving. Mother Teresa’s words “their echoes are truly endless” make me think about how, when someone says something kind to me, it not only results in my feeling valued in that moment, but also at other times when I recall what was said.

It is essential, of course, that we be sincere when saying such words. If we aren’t sincere, it’s better to say nothing. But I think sometimes when people are busy and absorbed in what they are doing they neglect to thank, compliment, encourage, and comfort. It’s important to look at ourselves and see if that’s the case. And, if so, to make an effort to change.

Kind words, genuinely stated, not only brighten the day for the person to whom they are spoken, kind words also send positive energy into the world. And certainly the more positive energy there is in our world, the better!

As we go about our daily activities—working, raising children, completing tasks—it can be easy to take for granted how fortunate we are. It’s important, however, that we remember and are thankful for our blessings. It’s also important to remember these words of Jesus: “Every one to whom much is given, of that person will much be expected.” Luke 12:48.

When I’m struggling with trying to follow inner direction, remembering those words helps me. Sometimes when I wake up in the morning, my ego wishes I didn’t need to go to work that day, or to try to write, or to follow through with my other responsibilities. I just want to be lazy. At those times it helps me to think about how much I have been given. I have friends who have been laid off when there were staff reductions, I know people who are going through painful treatment for serious illnesses, and I know others who are lonely and long to be in a committed relationship. I haven’t had to experience any of these things. I pray that if I ever do, I’ll have the faith and courage to do what I need to do. I’m thankful I have a job, I’m thankful I have good health, and I’m thankful that there are people who love me.

Remembering these and my many other blessings helps me to recognize those times when I’m struggling and to say to my ego who would rather be idle that that is the wrong choice. I recognize that I have been given much and it’s essential that I try to do what is expected of me by our Creator. For by endeavoring to follow my inner voice, I take steps toward becoming the person I was created to be.