Meliorism (n.); the belief that humans can improve the world

Here's something... what if you took five minutes out of your day to compliment a stranger? What if, in the midst of a frustrating conversation, you took a deep breath and swallowed the hurtful words on the tip of your tongue? What if you made a point to smile as you passed people on the street? What if you took your nose out of your phone enough to notice those around you? What do you think would happen?

I'll tell you. You just might make someone's day.

There's so much negativity in the world. Everyone is dealing with something and more than likely, you don't know what it is.

I am a firm believer that words are one of the world's greatest band-aids. They won't magically heal a wound, but it can help to stop an infection. Words don't fix everything, but a kind word will NEVER hurt anyone. If a kind word won't harm anything, what do you have to lose by offering one?

Here's the thing. I have been on the receiving end of some terrible words. I would much rather break my leg than relive those moments. Unfortunately, I have a hard time forgetting harsh words and an even harder time remembering kind ones. You remember how people made you feel more than what they said, but when those are tied together, it can be a destructive combination. Feelings can bubble up and can often end up being released in the form of harsh words. It's difficult to control them and it's difficult to find a healthy outlet to express them. But there's a time and a place, and when you discover the time and place (and right person to express your frustrations to), it will become much easier to take that deep breath and speak kindly.

I have found myself in moments of weakness and solitude, evaluating and beginning to convince myself that what someone said about me must be true based on the sole fact that they said it. I have thrown pity-parties for myself because I have determined that others have the ability to judge my own self-worth. Sadly, I have momentarily found my identity in other people's opinions.

Here's another question: do you want to be the reason that someone questions their value? If you speak harshly, can you identify why you feel the need to? No, humans shouldn't find their identity in each other. Humans will always disappoint you. It's easier said than done, though. I know that. However, until an individual is able to recognize the aforementioned statement, speak softly and kindly.

I live my life for an audience of one; for my Savior. It has taken me a long time to get here and I still struggle, but I have found comfort in knowing that I have just one person to please. My identity is found in the one who hand-picked me to live the life I do. That life, has taken me to all kinds of amazing places and I have met some incredible people. I strive to live to make my God proud. In doing so, my life will reflect Him, and out of that, my identity will be found, the words that leave my lips will be constructive, and I can uplift instead of tear down. Out of the mouth, the heart speaks. I want my heart to be filled with love, not hate. I want that to be evident, and since people don't have x-ray eyes, the evidence needs to come from my words.

"And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." Micah 6:8