When It’s In Your Power
I was given the gift of a vacation to Arizona in February. It was lovely to see the sun and feel warm during a time when at home, I am usually bundled up. It’s helpful to have breaks like that especially if you live in the Midwest where the winter months are gray, gloomy and seem to drag on for too long. It boosts the spirit and reminds you that brighter days are ahead. That is also the blessing of spring break for educators and students alike. And in some ways, it signals the final push of the school year, and that summer break is coming.
I am a proponent of recognizing and embracing positive reminders. I believe that we benefit from cues to see the goodness around us and within us. I also like to provide those moments to others around me. I intentionally look for ways to laud high notes, achievements, and/or traits in others that perhaps go unnoticed or acknowledged. It goes without saying there is so much negativity surrounding us that it can feel heavy and constricting. Thus, my commitment to look for good and call it out when I see it. Everyone can benefit from some extra love and encouragement. I know I appreciate it.
While out hiking South Mountain and Camelback during my trip to Arizona, some of the trails were level and relatively easy to maneuver. Others were steep and I would say treacherous (others would say I was being too dramatic, and they weren’t “that bad”). I was amazed at the physicality and tenacity of some of the other hikers. There were people of all ages, sizes, fitness levels making their way on the trails. In many cases it was motivating to me to keep pushing. Other times when I determined I was done, it was inspiring (and honestly sometimes a little convicting) to see people forging ahead. I was awed and didn’t hesitate to communicate that directly to them as they passed me. I would say “Great job up there” or “Good for you” or “You got me beat”. People would smile in appreciation or sometimes exchange some pleasantries. It enriched the experience for me (and hopefully them). One of my travel companions mentioned that maybe I was being too friendly and that not everyone wanted to be spoken to or engaged in dialogue. That made me pause as I contemplated their statement. Maybe there was some truth to that, but I hadn’t experienced any negative reactions to my comments. So, it became food for thought.
Upon my return I was out with a friend after work. As we walked to the restaurant for dinner, I noticed she greeted people along the way. I recounted to her my experience in Arizona and the comment that was made about my being potentially overly friendly. From her perspective, it’s always right to be yourself, authentic and friendly (if that is who you are genuinely). We had a good conversation about the benefits of showing kindness, giving compliments, demonstrating positivity and friendliness. It reminded me of a comment my mother says regularly, “It is always right to do right.” Another quote of hers is, “If it’s in your power to do good, you should do it.” I believe both of those sentiments are good, true, and right. I enjoy seeing people’s reactions to accolades they receive whether they are from me or someone else. It warms my heart to see others being praised. So not only does it do good for them, but it ends up doing good for me as well. Giving love and getting love is all part of self-care in my mind.
Therefore, I have a renewed commitment to spreading positivity and love wherever I go. I’m convinced that it makes the world a better place. You are better for it and I’m better for it, therefore WE are better for it. Let’s look for ways we can lift each other up. Whether we see each other in the hallways or heading into a meeting or even passing each other on the sidewalk (or hiking trail) look for ways to brighten someone’s day. It’s in your power to do good, so do it! My mom said so.