I never know how what I write on my website, this blog, or in email influences others. But I have three specific examples that I learned about this past week that made me smile.

One was from a man who said…

…that what he read on this blog gave him the courage to wear boots with a suit to his office. He wrote in an email to me that he picked out a pair of boots from an internet vendor, wore them around the house for a week or so, then wore them to work. He was afraid that co-workers might say something negative or make snide remarks, but he found out that what I have been saying all along is true — he only received compliments.

Another was from a guy who said that he was uncertain about a style and brand of boots to buy to wear while learning to ride a new motorcycle that he bought. Lucky dude, he lives in a year-round warm climate, so he can ride while some of us cannot due to cold, ice, snow, etc.

This guy said that he had been thinking about “wearing my sneaks” — meaning sneakers. But then he read this blog and then checked out my website and ultimately determined that he should get some “real biker boots.” He was lucky enough to find a pair of Chippewa engineer boots at a local motorcycle shop and loves them.

Another influence that I learned about was described on a good friend’s blog (blog no longer available). My friend wrote to me about feeling down. I suggested that he think of one thing that his children and family did and pay a compliment that is specific and shows thoughtfulness and attention. He did that, and everything changed… for the better.

You see, I do this each and every day. I do it so much that I do not often recognize that I do it. I give a compliment to my spouse, my close co-workers, family and each senior pal that I speak with on a given day. “Thank you for…” or “great going on…” or “your smile brightens my day” or “what a great job on…”. Saying something specific shows two things — 1) that you are paying attention to that person; and 2) you care.

When you give a compliment, say thank you (and mean it because you are specific), and otherwise show appreciation and caring, it does wonders for your own soul. That is why I usually am bright and chipper. Why I usually have a silly grin on my face. Why I look my spouse, family, and friends in the eye and intensely indicate a form of love.

Man, those little actions spread throughout the day buoy my spirits, make glum days good, and give me strength to press on — even when things are not going my way or troubles, worries, or concerns laden the spirit.

This is a real demonstration of what I call my faith. It is spiritual, but not led by an external source. It is me, who I am, and who I will be for the rest of my life.

All of these influences — my website, this blog, or my faith — are viewed, read, and seen by thousands who I do not know. I just hope that somehow, some way, something good comes of it. I feel that it does — I have faith.

Life is short: say something positive every day to those you love. The return of your own spirit being lifted is beyond measure.