a few kind words

I’ll hold my hands up and say that I’m not the best at verbally communicating my feelings. I’m okay at sharing my excitement about things, but when it comes to struggles, I tend to keep my cards very close to my chest. I am also not the best at letting those around me know how much I appreciate them.

However, what I can do well is send long messages of encouragement, gratitude and celebration to people. Mini essays I send on people’s birthdays, at times of achievement or whenever I feel prompted to do so. I do it because I know those people are more than deserving of a few kind words from me. I also know how much I appreciate when it’s done to me, and it seems those around me share in that appreciation. But there is also a selfish reason behind those actions… It makes me feel good.

The simple act of sharing my heart for someone with them over a few typed characters, really makes me feel good. Well, once I’ve gotten over the initial anxiety that sometimes comes with sending such messages, and the fear of how it may be perceived, it feels good. Really good. Those sorts of small acts really make my day.

It’s similar to the excitement I get in coming up with a really cool gift to get someone for their birthday or Christmas. There is a real joy in the outward pouring of love and generosity, even if it’s simply through a few kind words.

By no means does this fool me into thinking I am some sort of selfless saint (I am acutely aware of my egocentricity), but there is intrinsic enjoyment and satisfaction in looking beyond the world of one’s own self and caring for others.