Does Your Face Light Up?

Good evening, all!

I was so excited when I remembered this clip I once saw on Oprah because I knew that it would be absolutely perfect.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Jw0Fu8nhOc - Clip if you are interested!

Oprah always refers to the "Aha Moment." It is the moment when you come to a realization that can change who you are. Author Toni Morrison was on the show discussing a book, but she said something that gave me my "Aha Moment." Morrison asked, "When a child walks into a room, does your face light up?" I thought about this a great deal that day. It doesn't have to just be a child; it can be anyone. It goes back to the fact that everyone wants to feel appreciated and validated.


"Does your face light up?" What emotion are you giving off when you first see a friend, family member, co-worker, spouse, student? People can sense how you feel about them. Make them feel what you feel. I say this because we all know what it is like to be on the other side. We know how it is to be acknowledged with excitement and joy, and we know what it is like to meet the critical eyes of someone that we care about. No one likes to be picked apart as soon as they enter the room. It is always nice to feel that you are wanted. I think this advice can do wonders for so many. I don't advise jumping up and down or lighting off fireworks each time you see someone you love; however, I promise that if you make a sincere attempt to "light up" you will see a difference.


I have a friend whom I work with whom people are drawn to because of this very reason; she makes it seem as though she is truly happy to see you. Sometimes it's with an enthusiastic hello or a big smile, but she makes it known that she is glad I am there. It is the same with the kids. She is adored by 99.99% of the school population. (I have to leave the .01% of people who can't get along with anyone.) She validates everyone. She probably has no idea what she is doing, but it makes all the difference in the world. She lights up.


That is my advice. Become conscious of the vibe you give off. Show genuine happiness when a loved one enters a room. We have plenty of time to be critical and dole out advice later. First, let them know they are loved with a smile, cheerful hello, or even an acknowledgement. A little bit of caring can go a long way.


Go do good things,


BT