What are you looking for?
Friday, November 4, 2016

It is All About Positivity and Support

Fridays are always an internal battle for me. Thrilled I made it through another week but dreading the hurdles I'll have to jump through to make it to 6pm.

Running a few minutes late to work, dressed in a t-shirt and a large scarf that's appropriate for the arctic temperatures in my office, I was particularly looking forward to this day ending as quickly as it started.

(As a note for all future blogs: I'm from a southern state, born and raised, so I say "y'all" and I hold the door open for you even if you're still 2 miles away from walking into your destination. It is no surprise to me when I encounter someone who is as equally rude as they are unfamiliar with the southern terms and agreement. My face has received many door slams due to my unfortunate politeness. I accept this.)

This morning a woman, whom I had never seen before, went out of her way to hold the door open for me as I jogged through the parking lot. She had her hands full of coffee and some delicious baked goods from the common coffee shop we love to hate love.


As I walked through the door, she gave me a compliment I'm not sure I've ever received from another woman. "You have the best figure." Underneath my t-shirt and frumpy scarf, I have to admit--I was caught off-guard. It was a pleasant way to start my day. As a woman, we often struggle with our body issues and the way we view ourselves.

After saying such kind words, she lifted her baked goods and shrugged. "I guess this is why I don't have one."

I was shocked. This woman was petite, probably 4 or 5 inches shorter than me, and certainly not in bad shape.

Here is a person with a kind soul, possibly bringing in snacks for her colleagues and holding the door for a stranger, who immediately focuses on her looks in a negative light.

Why is this always the case for women? Or even men? Why should this fantastic person punish herself for giving into the delicious pumpkin cheesecake brownie begging to be purchased in the window of the coffee shop? Why did she build me up, only to tear herself down immediately after?

We've heard it before but I'll say it again. You are more than enough. 

I'm not going to act as if I'm 'happy go lucky Miss Sunshine' all the time. I often let my bad moods squash my levels of vitamin D. By these few words a woman said to me, my day got a little brighter.

The point of this rambling story is that some people are built by breaking each other down. A larger majority are built from building each other up. At the end of the day, which category do you fall into?

Today's Friday challenge is to say something kind to a complete stranger. Maybe even multiple strangers--go crazy. You never know what they're currently going through. You could change their entire day.

To the woman who helped start off my Friday on the right foot, I hope you enjoyed every single bite of your treats and that you are kicking today's ass like the rockstar you are!

To everyone else, don't you ever turn down that second piece of cake. All you can do at times is make yourself happy. (Trainers and nutritionists, beware!)

Add your comment

  1. Thanks for reminding us how just a few simple words CAN make or break someone's day! I'm looking forward to reading your future words of positivity!

    ReplyDelete
  2. This was fabulous! From a shawty, curvy southern girl who will embrace her curves today, to a kick ass young writer, girl you rock! Thanks for the smile and positive vibe! Your Mama raised you right!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Beautifully written and what a wonderful reminder to be true to yourself and enjoy life. Southern charm - such a great accessory to brighten up any outfit! Thanks for these inspiring words.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Very insightful and well written!
    PS...Your mom loves you and thinks you're the bomb!

    ReplyDelete