When you see something beautiful in someone, tell them. It may take seconds to say, but for them, it could last a lifetime. I searched the internet to find the origin of this quote but couldn’t find it attributed to anyone in particular. Regardless of who said it, the truth behind it still is very powerful.
I’m sure you can remember a specific compliment someone gave you that has stuck with you. It may have been from a stranger or it may have been from a family member, but it was so impactful that it has brought joy to you for years.
So knowing how good being complimented feels, why don’t we tell others what we see beautiful about them. It may be that they have their hair fixed a pretty way or it may be that they have a beautiful smile, but we just pass by, not saying anything. I think for me, I feel like if I say anything it might be seen as forward or bothering the other person. When in reality, it would make the other person feel special.
Everyone we come in contact with is our neighbor. Jesus told us in Mark 12: 29-31, “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.” Jesus took the time to see the beauty in everything and we are to follow his example.
In Romans 15: 1-2, we are told to build each other up. “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.” Building each other up can look like many different things — giving a compliment, holding the door for someone, helping someone reach something on the shelf. Simple acts of kindness spread beauty.
I remember many compliments and acts of kindness I have received, and they have all made me feel special. They have built me up in times when I was feeling low. My husband and I went on a recent cruise, and everyone was so kind. They took the time to compliment the smallest things, such as the pair of earrings I was wearing that day. Compliments like that are contagious. I began to compliment strangers on the cruise as well, and you could see their face light up. It made them feel special but also made me feel good as well.
Take time to see the beauty in everyone you encounter during the day and you will be amazed at just how beautiful this world truly is. “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people.” Galatians 6:10
This week’s recipe is a delicious Greek salsa. It is super yummy served over a chicken breast or baked
salmon with some brown rice or enjoyed just with some pita chips. It is delicious, and I hope your family loves it as much as mine does.
“Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus clear the way for us to come to you. May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones.” 1 Thessalonians 3:11-13
April 19, 2024
