As a child when I was picked on or spoken to meanly my mom would always remind me of the age old adage, “sticks and stones may break your bones, but words will never hurt you.”

Sticks and Stones

Let me tell you… my hand to God! (in my best Staten Island accent)  That was a L-I-E!

Words can hurt and on the other hand words can be inspiring, motivating, encouraging and loving.  In his book “The Five Love Languages,” Gary Chapman says words of affirmation affirm another person. Who doesn’t want to be affirmed or have their actions, hopes and dreams acknowledged, validated and accepted?

Two weeks ago I received two e-mails from two different sets of people (a married couple and a mother & daughter) that I randomly met out and about in my everyday life.  In their e-mails they said they were following-up on connecting for the dinner or coffee we discussed but they also took the time to tell me how much they enjoyed meeting me and the conversation that we had. Those words really meant a lot to me. In fact, they made my day! It was such a pleasant and unexpected compliment.

I take a great deal of personal pride and joy in sending cards and letters because I believe it’s important to let people know they are appreciated, that you appreciate what they have done on your behalf or that you appreciate the gift they have given to you. People want to feel valued and it’s nice to know when you have positively affected another human being.

In our fast paced society of two sentence e-mails and text messages why don’t you take the time to send a card or letter (good old fashion snail mail) to your significant other, a friend or relative letting them know you appreciate them….it just may SEIZE their Day!

CARPE DIEM

If you aren’t up to writing a letter or sending a card here are some creative ways I found to share words of affirmation with your mate, family and/or friends!

1.  Love Notes Box: Your family will have so much fun leaving each other random love notes

Photo Credit: http://eighteen25.blogspot.com/2010/11/love-notes-box.html

Photo Credit: http://eighteen25.blogspot.com/2010/11/love-notes-box.html

2. 365 Love Notes: 365 love notes makes a thoughtful  graduation gift for a child about to go a way to college, Christmas gift for a loved one, Valentine’s, engagement, or anniversary gift…a note for each day of the year.

Photo Credit: http://www.themed-party-ideas.com/365-love-notes.php#template

Photo Credit: http://www.themed-party-ideas.com/365-love-notes.php#template

 

3. RedStamp is a GREAT app for sending thinking of you, thank you, congratulations, holiday and birthday cards via your mobile phone. They allow you to choose a theme and personalize it with your own words and pictures.

Red Stamp 2

St Paul Magazine’s Nov 2011 Seen + Heard Column