Saying Thank You

Yesterday at church we had a discussion about how quick we are to be annoyed with and criticize each other. But how often do we affirm each other? When was the last time you told someone what you admired about them?When was the last time you told someone that you saw Jesus in them?

I’m going to have to be transparent and say that this is not an area that I’m strong in. I’m uncomfortable when other people praise me. It feels good, really good, but it embarrasses me. And typically I don’t embarrass easily. So, I’d like to think that I shy away from lavishing praise on other people because I assume they will feel the same way. But, in reality, I think I frequently find it easier to focus on the negatives – and jump in trying to fix them – rather than focus on the good things and appreciate them.

After that conversation, I decided it was time for me to make a concerted effort to find the positives around me and acknowledge them directly and honestly. The same way I try to address problems I see.

Today, I started with my brother-in-law. Corey, Joey’s oldest brother, has served in the military since he was a teenager. He’s served 2 tours of duty in Iraq, 1 in Egypt and possibly more in the future. {SIGH} Won’t it be great when there is no more war? No more hurting. No more injustice. No more death.

 

He has put his safety on the line to keep us safe. He has spent time away from his child and his wife in order to keep me and my children free. He and every other American soldier have sacrificed for me in a way that only One other person has ever done.

I observed Memorial Day today by telling him how much I appreciated it.

Tomorrow?? Who will it be? What will I notice that I’ve always overlooked before?

What about you? Who do you need to talk to?