When life delights us and fills us with glee we want to celebrate. It feels good to share unbounded joy without having to temper enthusiasm with modesty. Early in life we're taught that humility is a virtue; that no one likes to hear us brag. It’s a tough lesson to unlearn. There are many people we can go to when we have problems. It's equally important to have people who are enthusiastic about acknowledging our gifts, our efforts, and our achievement.
Recently I received this email from a friend with a copy of the photo below:
I was on a flight the other day and gave my first class seat to the father of a passenger sitting in economy. The gentleman was recovering from a serious bout with Covid-19 and his daughter was accompanying him on his flight home. While we were in the terminal I observed his difficulty breathing, moving, and getting settled. I talked to the crew and arranged to exchange seats so he could board easily and rest comfortably in the first class section of the plane.
Yesterday I received this moving note from his young daughter. Imagine my surprise. I’m sending it to you to share my joy and to underscore how what we do impacts others.
It’s inspiring to receive this. We often share our failings, but not our acts of kindness and successes. There's already so much negativity in this world — let’s reinforce the positive.
Where can we turn when we want to celebrate ourselves? Who is thrilled to be an outright admirer? I hope — for you — my name comes to mind. If not, now is a good time to put me on top of your Admire Me list.
Here's my offer. Reach out to me at the first sign of something to acknowledge and celebrate — small or large. I already feel my eyes shining with the wonder of who you are and what you feel good about.
Share your gifts. Those who care take delight in admiring you.
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This is the last blog of the season until September. There’s a project I’m eagerly embracing. During our break please, please reach out with lots of Admire Me requests.