Sometimes “positive” gets a bad rap. People think that you have to be loud and boisterous or outrageous in order to be positive. Not true. Although I CAN be all of those things, mostly I’m just really enthusiastic. But many times, positive can just be kind or caring or supportive.
Yesterday, for instance, I went to a drug store to grab a tube of toothpaste and as I got out of my car, an elderly gentleman was trying to put a walker he’d just bought into his trunk. I spoke to him cheerfully and asked him if he needed some help? He said, “it won’t fit; I can’t get it in the trunk!” I said “yes, sir; we just need to push right here…” and I pulled up the cross supports so it collapsed and folded neatly into his trunk. You’d have thought I’d given him a winning lotto ticket! He thanked me, and “God bless”ed me, and shook my hand and was exceedingly grateful. Something so small — 30 seconds and a smile.
Sunday some folks were raising money for a children’s program in front of my Walmart (yes, I own them all. LOL) People were passing them by like they were offering the plague. When I came out of the store I went to see what they were raising for — a program to teach kids about entrepreneurship. I gave them a few bucks, declined the candy they offered (my waist didn’t need it.) They said, “Thank you sir; I’ll give a nice child the candy on your behalf.” I said, that would be fine. That took maybe 3 minutes.
Positive doesn’t have to be huge! It can be a kind word, or just acknowledging that someone exists, when they feel alone or forgotten. Walk up to an old person that everyone is ignoring and just say, “Good morning, sir”… or ma’am. Watch them light up. Help someone cross the street — that still works too :-) Call someone you haven’t seen in a while and say hello. Check the name badge on your cashier next purchase, and address them by name when you say “thank you”. I’m sure you can think of some others.
So… no video today, no rousing commentary. But, go ahead and be quietly positive today. Tomorrow we can go back to being boisterous and seriously energized.
Have an awesome day.
Kelvin
5 Comments
Mitch Mitchell
(August 3, 2012 - 7:33 pm)Positive really is just that simple. It could be as simple as telling someone they look nice. It could be as simple as holding the door open for them. To me, anything that shows you care, whether it’s for yourself or not, is positive, and it’s not always so showy, as you stated. Good stuff.
Kelvin
(July 21, 2012 - 11:42 pm)Thanks, Sandra!
I appreciate you taking the time to check out my blog and leave a comment. Please check our page below and join our conversation. I call it our Worldwide Positivity Portal, and leave your own comments there if you like. You have an awesome day.
The page: http://www.facebook.com/intenselypositive
Sandra
(July 21, 2012 - 11:16 am)I love your energy and exuberance. It exudes in this post and inyour tweets!
Kelvin
(July 15, 2012 - 1:29 am)Thank you Julie!!! and knowing YOUR story, make your words that much more poignant. Personally, you inspire ME, and I thank you for taking the time to comment on this blog. I’m going to link to yours here, just so readers can have an appreciation of your point of view. Thank you SO much. Have an awesome day, my friend. http://www.blogger.com/profile/09722960202852150259
Julie Hemker
(June 28, 2012 - 1:05 pm)Your words are so true, compelling and motivational! Embracing all the little moments which make up a day and offering a smile or thank you does make a difference. Occasionally we find ourselves on the receiving end or longing for an out stretched hand. It’s wonderful to read articles which move others to positive action in whatever form is necessary!! Truly inspirational and thank you for the message!