When you like something, say so!
We've all heard the adage, The squeaky wheel gets the oil, right? Meaning, if you don't like something and you complain about it, that thing will get changed. Because - who likes to listen to a squeaky wheel? We give it oil so it shuts up! OK. That wise old saying makes perfect sense to me. When something isn't right, speak up about it! (Or "squeak" up about it, as the case may be.) But this week at Edgewood, I saw another kind of wisdom in action. A kind of wisdom which I think we really ought to put into practice more often than we are in the habit of doing. That is, I observed someone not complaining about something she didn't like. Rather, she was complimentary about something she did like. I put together a little activity I thought our community members would enjoy ***Read that: I copied a great idea which I found by searching 'Senior Activities' on Google.*** and when it was over, B said to me, "That was great. We should do it again sometime!" She went on to tell me why she liked the activity so much and I assured her - we will do it again. And you can be certain, when we do it again there will be a smile on my face as I make the plans. I will do everything I can to be sure B is able to participate with us, and I'll try to recruit even more people to play along. Because I know B enjoyed the game and I want to bring her joy again. The thing is, it seems today we are so quick to point out the things which bother us but not the things we like. I can't tell you how many times I hold my breath - waiting for a complaint - when someone approaches me after a program. (And I don't mean just at Edgewood. Those folks tend to be quite appreciative.) I have a feeling you know what I mean. And I must admit, sometimes I am the one complaining. Maybe you are, too. What a breath of fresh air it is when someone likes what you've done - and they tell you about it! B encouraged me with her words, and I want to spread her wisdom. Yeah, yeah, yeah. When things aren't right we need to squeak up. But let us not stop there. OK? When you like something, say so!
Disclaimer: The ideas and opinions expressed in this post are my own, and may not necessarily reflect those of Vista Springs Living Centers.
3 comments:
Amen! I did this at a recent homescho convention I attended, making a point to talk to vendors and tell them how their product had blessed us. We all need the encouragement!
Love this! Focusing on the good and positive, is so important. Yet I am guilty too, I have been a complainer :( Great idea to reflect on. ((hugs))Chera
Angela - We do. And besides encouraging, I think those words really do serve a purpose in letting people (vendors!) know what we like. :)
Chera - I think we're all guilty at times. But we can focus on doing better. :)
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