Say Something Nice

This week has been an incredibly challenging one, and really I hadn't planned to do any writing.  Hadn't planned to do much beyond pulling on my Old Navy sweatpants and curling up with a good book.

But something keeps niggling in my brain, telling me to write today.

Often, our school principal uses the morning announcements to challenge us to do something.  "Learn one thing new today" has been a pretty consistent theme.  Today, his challenge was the following:

Say Something Nice.

It began with an email.  One teacher needed 50 black pipe cleaners for a class project.  "I'll trade other colors if you want!"  Within minutes, a second email popped up, "We have more than we need, thank you so much!"  This speed of help is not uncommon in our school.

A third email quickly followed, reminding us of the morning challenge and saying her "something nice" was that it was so wonderful that we work in a community like this where we help one another.

It got me thinking of all of the "nice" little things that have happened during this harried and hectic week, and I thought I'd share.

A baby's laugh, drawing smiles from everyone who walked past her.

Coworkers, pitching in where needed and never complaining that it "isn't their job".

Quick emails and phone calls from teachers, letting us know where their classes were so we didn't have to search.

Patient parents.

Smiles.

Chocolate.

Bright sun and a nice breeze after refreshing rain.

One of my pink lilies finally bloomed.

My husband's coworker, saying good morning with a smile, when I dropped My G off at work.

Kids talking and swinging outside.  You'd never guess they were nearing 13.

Caring veterinary staff, helping us care for our crazy cats.

A thank you.

A hug.

A smile.

There are so many things that make life difficult, so many things that make the days stretch too long and too hard.  If we take a few moments to say something nice to someone who has made a difference, or notice something positive that is going on in our world, it refreshes our spirit.  If we do it often enough, it becomes a habit.  If we have a healthy habit, before we know it, others will notice and start to do it too.

Philippians 4:8 is one of my favorites, and I think it fits tonight.  "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

Let's say something nice.