Praise is like sunlight to the human spirit; we cannot flower and grow without it. And yet, while most of us are only too ready to apply to others the cold wind of criticism, we are somehow reluctant to give our fellows the warm sunshine of praise.
Why-when one word can bring such pleasure? A friend of mine who travels widely always tries to learn a little of the language of any place she visits. She's not much of a linguist, but she does know how to say one word-"beautiful"-in several languages. . The ability has earned her friends all over the world.
It's strange how chary we are about praising. . Instead, we are embarrassed and shrug off the words we are really so glad to hear. Because of this defensive reaction, direct compliments are surprisingly difficult to give. That's why some of the most valued pats on the back are those which come to us indirectly, in a letter or passed on by a friend. When one thinks of the speed with which spiteful remarks are conveyed, it seems a pity that there isn't more effort to relay pleasing and flattering comments.
. An artist gets compliment for a glorious picture, a cook for a perfect meal. But do you ever tell your laundry manager how pleased you are when the shirts are done just right? Do you ever praise your paper boy for getting the paper to you on time 365 days a year?
To give praise costs the giver nothing but a moment's thought and a moment's effort- . It is such a small investment-and yet consider the results it may produce. “I can live for two months on a good compliment," said Mark Twain.
So, let's be alert to the small excellences around us-and comment on them. We will not only bring joy into other people's lives, but also, very often, add happiness into our own.
A. Praise is particularly appreciated by those doing routine jobs.
B. Comment is often made about activities which are relatively easy and satisfying, like arranging flowers; but not about jobs which are hard and dirty, like scrubbing floors.
C. It's especially rewarding to give praise in areas in which effort generally goes unnoticed or unmentioned.
D. Perhaps a quick phone call to pass on a compliment, or five minutes spent writing an appreciative letter.
E. She can use it to a mother holding her baby, or to a lonely salesman fishing out pictures of his family.
F. Perhaps it's because few of us know how to accept compliments gracefully.
