Say Something

I have been a teacher for almost 20 years.  In that time, I have taken many different trainings over many different topics.  Some trainings were (and are) annual trainings.  I don’t know how many times I’ve listened to the same video about Blood Borne Pathogens….teachers out there, if you know, you know.  

One of the other training sessions I have sat through are the mandated reporter trainings.  I have a love-hate relationship with these trainings because as much as I hate the horrible scenarios that are presented and the warning signs that I should watch for, I am so glad to have this information because it could make a significant difference in the life a child, and there isn’t anything more important than to keep our kids safe.  The biggest tagline at the end of the training is “if you see something, say something.”  This is true also at the airport.  If you see shady business happening, my goodness, say something!  Don’t let those shady characters on an airplane!!  

I feel like I hear this saying associated with when there’s danger…a potentially abused child or someone with nefarious intentions on an aircraft.

I got to thinking, why don’t we use this same saying when it comes to good things?  If you see something, say something.  

If you see someone try and succeed at something new, say something!

“That was great!”

“You are so brave to try that!”

“I admire you for going out on a limb.”

If you see someone just doing a good job, say something! Tell them that you appreciate their effort.  This could be someone you know well or just someone out in public like a waiter or barista or retail employee or cop or teacher….the list is endless.

When I was told while working retail jobs in college that I was helpful or that the customer appreciated me, it lifted my day.  Now, when a colleague or a parent tells me something specific that they appreciate me doing for their kid, I feel like I’m on Cloud 9!  Words of affirmation is my biggest love language, so when I get an “‘atta boy”, I savor that for days!

This can also be used in your personal life with your most important people (spouses, kids, grandkids, pets).  Tell them specifically what you love or appreciate about them, and do it often!  This may change the atmosphere in your home, especially if it’s been tense or harder to be at home.  

It’s also good for you.  Saying positive things versus negative things will start to make you feel better.  It’s like taking medicine.  Little by little, it should help to ease anxiety, sadness, bitterness, anger, and the like.

So, just as it’s important to say something when you sense there is something wrong, you should also take the time to say something when something is right!  Make someone’s day!