The Power of a Compliment

If I see someone dressed cutely, or their hair looks nice, or I see them doing something sweet, I compliment them. As a writing tutor, I first compliment what they do well before going into constructive suggestions.

By doing so, I know I can reach out to them and make them smile. I smile at them as well. I enjoy smiling. 

Today, that small, random act of kindness I try to provide was returned to me. I wore one of my favorite skirts today: ankle-long, very full, black and white skirt. As I was walking to the library, a 9-year-old girl came skipping up to me with a smile on her face. Even though I had my headphones in and I was watching the clouds as I walked, she still said to me, "I love your skirt." I immediately turned to her and said, "Thank you." 

That was about 20 minutes ago. I am still smiling. So sweet, and it made my day.

Emily Dickinson wrote this poem that has inspired me to compliment and smile when I feel the need, even to strangers.

“They might not need me; but they might. 
I'll let my head be just in sight; 
A smile as small as mine might be 
Precisely their necessity.” 

My challenge to you: try to smile or compliment at least one random person a day. It will make their day AND yours!