But it's also made me think about all of those people out there who are disheartened, who don't feel like they can do anything right, who are feeling blue, suffering from depression etc. You know, the people who can't think of anything to smile about.
It brought to mind this wonderful short film starring T.J. Thyne (you may know him from the TV series Bones) called Validation. It's about a parking garage attendant who tells people how wonderful and amazing they are - he "validates" them and brings smiles to their faces.
I know we can't necessarily fix other people's problems or make all of their worries go away, but we can all help bring a smile to people's faces by offering a few words of encouragement or noticing something awesome about them. After all, there's something positive we can say about pretty much everyone, isn't there?
Anyway, that's today's random thought. If you've got some time, you might want to check out Validation. Who knows, it might bring a smile to your face.
When's the last time you paid someone a compliment? What was the last compliment someone paid you? How did it make you feel?
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It costs nothing to smile or offer encouragement, but it's priceless to the recipient.
ReplyDeleteVery well said
DeleteLovely post, Ellen.
ReplyDeleteWe really just never know when our kinds words - whether spoken or written -will be the thing someone really and truly needs to hear in that moment.
I know - a small thing that we say might just make the difference between a bad day and good day for someone.
DeleteI agree with you. Being a positive influence on others is so easy to do. Everyone needs validation. Everyone.
ReplyDeleteHave a fabulous day and week. ♥
We all sure do need validation
DeleteA little positive goes a long way.
ReplyDeleteIt really does
DeleteWords do have power.
ReplyDeleteThat video is great! Yes, we all need some positive encouragement.
ReplyDeleteI love this video :-) Such an uplifting message in it.
DeleteI just admitted this morning to a new friend that I'm extremely blessed. And I commended him for moving back to the area to care for his father and uncle. Normally, I'll try to compliment peoples' clothing. It's a quick way to brighten someone's day, I feel, and those ladies at the YMCA are snazzy dressers. ~grin~ Be well, my dear.
ReplyDeleteIt's so easy to take a minute and notice something that someone has done with their appearance, whether clothes, earrings, a new shade of lipstick. So easy, yet it really brightens up someone's day.
DeleteIt never hurts to be kind and say something nice to someone. In fact, it can really help lift up two people, the person hearing it and the person saying it.
ReplyDeleteYou're so right - it also makes you feel better when you're being kind to someone else.
DeleteOh, I love that video! I had forgotten it until you had it here. One of my daughters had to watch it for a script-writing class and I think we watched it three or four times in a row because we loved it so much. I'm going to go make sure it's in one of my folders from now on.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this! And, I agree, a compliment only takes a moment and it can really help.
I had forgotten about it as well. So glad it came to mind and I loved rewatching it.
Deletethat is a very cute video! I love it.
ReplyDeleteIt's a wonderful video :-)
DeleteWhat a lovely film! I know how good validation feels - and I need to pass it on to there’s more often. Great reminder.
ReplyDeleteIt's one of those things we all need from time to time and so easy to give to others.
DeleteYou're singing my song. :)
ReplyDeleteToo bad finding validation isn't as simple as following the directional arrow on a sign...
That would be nice :-)
DeleteWhat a lovely thought! We all need validation, and sometimes it's as easy as complimenting the bus driver or thanking the person who cleans up at the gym. Sometimes it's even easier, as when we offer just praise to a writer with a fun read! ;)
ReplyDeleteYou're so right that validation can be really simple and easy - just takes a minute or two to brighten up someone's day.
DeleteCompliments are wonderful. I have made it a habit to compliment people on how they look or for what they do or accomplish. I also always thank others for whatever they provide or take care of. Appreciation and respect is important in our lives, especially when people go out of their way to do things for you or others. This is all easier when you're in a good mood, though. I have to admit, that I sometimes compliment myself and don't feel bad about it. :-)
ReplyDeleteCool video, except for the part where the guy gets kind of stalkerish. I keep telling Princesa Zara that she is beautiful and she keeps hiding under the bed. Guess I need to get all stalky on her but I don't fit under the bed very well.
ReplyDelete