A group of friends and I had our annual Christmas party yesterday…annual with the exception of last year. We’ve known each other for several years, having met when we worked together at the Health Department. 

Apart from eating, talking, laughing and catching up, we did a creative activity that involved identifying and exploring a positive memory. For me, the memory that arose was of meeting these women and how they welcomed me into the group. These women came into my life when I most needed revitalization and, without exaggerating, brought my spirit back to life. And I told them so yesterday….

Oftentimes, we don’t let others know how they have influenced us. We hold back for one reason or another. It could be a partner, a family member, a friend, a co-worker or the person who takes our coffee order with a smile each day. We can be influenced at any moment and by any one. Imagine how special that person might feel, knowing the impact of their actions.

Have you ever considered sharing your feelings with someone and then stopped yourself? Actually, have you stopped, recently, to think about those who have impacted you in ways, big and small? How might you feel if you shared? How might the other person if they heard?

If you could suspend judgment and/or feelings of discomfort, who would YOU like to acknowledge right now?