In all the
years since Debbie left L.A. to move to Denver, I never told her how the five
words she taught me changed my life. Twenty years flew over us like a streak in
the inky sky before I thought to thank her for those five words.
When we
moved into a beautiful new home, she said them. When my kids got awards, my
husband got a new job, and I had my first paying article published, she spoke
them. Even when I received things other friends might have been jealous of,
Debbie never withheld those five precious words.
She didn’t
realize how she was changing my thinking, helping me become a better friend, and
grow from selfish to joyful with her five words.
You have probably guessed by
now what they are:
I’m so
happy for you.
(I know, all
you English majors, that I’m is a contraction, and thus equals two words. But
don’t you think Five Words that Can Change
Your Life sounds snappier than Six
Words that Can Change Your Life? So,
you’ll just have to forgive me.)
The element
I loved most when Debbie spoke these five words was that I knew she
meant them. Because of her sincerity,
those words changed the way I relate to others when they receive
blessings. Debbie’s words made me realize how soul-nourishing it is to have
someone rejoice with you when you rejoice, rather than feeling envious of the goodness coming your way.
Because if
I’m brutally honest, I must confess that it’s easier for me to “weep with those
who weep” than it is to “rejoice with those who rejoice.” I can take your hand and
cry with you if you’re crying. But to say, “Wow, that’s marvelous!” when you’re
doing the Snoopy dance, takes maturity. And to dance with you takes unselfish
love. Especially when you just received something I’ve wanted for years.
When I’ve
pushed aside my immature thoughts and chosen to act in love, I’ve discovered a
joy that runs deep. If I can sincerely share in your blessings, my heart grows two
sizes. I go from Grinchy to Gracious.
So, whether
I change your life or not by saying, “I’m happy for you,” it’s worth the change
in me.
What words have changed your life or thinking? Have you thanked the person who spoke them to you?P.S. I will be offline for the next ten days, visiting my mom in CA. Please pray that my words to her will add grace to her life.
What a lovely, wise, love provoking post. I will be thinking about it for a long time. My prayers are with you and your mom-
ReplyDeleteThanks, Shelly. I so appreciate this so much!
DeleteWe all have times when we need to say something encouraging or comforting to someone else. Thank you for the reminder. I pray your visit with your mom will be a time of joy and also a time of hope.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Quiet. You are a true friend.
DeleteI agree, words are powerful! You've spoken a good handful to me that have encouraged and blessed - I'm so thankful for you! Praying you'll have a wonderful visit with your Mom. :)
ReplyDeleteAnd you have sown goodness many times into my life, too, Karen. Thank you for that.
DeleteThose ARE great words! I know you'll bring blessing to your mother, Jeanette :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for your encouragement, Rebecca. It means a lot.
DeleteThat's great, Jeanette. A wonderful challenge! I've seen you use these words before yourself. :D
ReplyDeletePraying for you and your situation with your mom. The Shepherd will guide you; I know it.
I've got 4 words (also with a contraction): You're easy to love. My late husband poured healing balm on my soul with those words.
ReplyDeleteI do love your transparency and your loving heart. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeletePraying for your visit with your mom.
ReplyDeleteIt is so great when we can use our words to encourage others.
ReplyDeleteHow is your mom doing?
Fondly,
Glenda
A heartwarming post indeed and one that calls for some deep reflection. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDelete