Remember Good Grades

In elementary school, one of the most exciting things for me was to get my homework returned with a colorful little sticker on it. I don’t even remember if they actually gave grades or anything like that but that sticker was always associated with a job well done. As I got older, actual letter or number grades replaced the stickers. How well I was doing compared to my peers or how each grade affects my chances of earning an A in the class became of more concern.

I started thinking about the wonderful people that I have in my life. They care about me, pay attention to me and want nothing but the best for me. They know my potential and want me to fulfill and exceed it. I feel that their presence in my life is a true blessing. Then, I wondered if they knew it. As much as I enjoy receiving the encouragement, do I give out comparable encouragement to those around me when they need it? Do I even encourage those that encourage me to ‘keep up the good work’ and adequately show my appreciation? Does a simple thank you and smile really accurately express the amount of appreciation I have for them? Do I assume they can just read my mind and automatically know?

I encourage you to remember that just as much as those ‘colorful little stickers’ at just the right moment make us feel good, other people need the love and encouragement at some point too. When the ‘colorful little sticker’ is missing, it opens the door for negative feelings. Some people are able to use that as motivation to try harder and do better next time. Others associate it with their potential and self-worth. In order to spread the positivity to those we love and care about, make a conscious effort to let them know that you love them, appreciate them, notice them, are proud of them and to keep up the good work!