Day 12: Something you never get compliments on

(feel free to ignore this one)

I have ne'er been praised on the curve of my nose
nor the shape of my chin,
nor the length of my toes.

I have ne'er been revered for my wonderful cough
nor my fabulous sneeze
though they've been heard a lot.

I was going to write something better than this
but naught seems worthwhile
when you're feeling sick.

Day 11: Something people seem to compliment you the most on

How many times do people have to say you're nice before it's definitely true? Whatever the number, I'm certain I will qualify. 

I think most people intend a compliment when they label a person "nice," but I'm not sure it is one. I hate to take a negative spin on compliments, but whenever I hear the statement, I can't help but believe they really mean "bland" in the place of "nice." I describe people as "nice" when I can think of no other characteristic to comment on. 

I would, however, prefer to considered a boring nice rather than an off-putting mean or rude or inconsiderate.  

I'm keeping this post short because well, I'm a tad bit sickly and colds tend to inhibit my ability to think clearly for long periods of time (or is that the medication?). I'll end with a quote from one of Austen's most enjoyable novels.

 

 "I am sure," cried Catherine, "I did not mean to say anything wrong; but it is a nice book, and why should not I call it so?"

"Very true," said Henry, "and this is a very nice day, and we are taking a very nice walk, and you are two very nice young ladies. Oh! It is a very nice word indeed! It does for everything. Originally perhaps it was applied only to express neatness, propriety, delicacy, or refinement -- people were nice in their dress, in their sentiments, or their choice. But now every commendation on every subject is comprised in that one word." 

Validation and Gratitude

I haven't included a video before, but this one is a favorite and works well with what I have to say today. It's a short film, so if you don't have 16 minutes - come back when you do.  If you're one of the 4 million people who have already seen it - don't you want to watch it again? (I would also like to give a little shout out to Bones which starts back up again tomorrow!)



Among other things, this video demonstrates the power of a compliment. I used to believe I didn't need them and that I should be able to do meaningful things without people reassuring me. But I was wrong. I thrive on compliments. I melt when a guy says I have pretty eyes. I often doubt myself and hesitate to do something without support. And while I don't need reassurance to do what is right - I constantly look for it when I going about those daily activities which seem morally neutral.

Like blogging

I started out thinking I would be comfortable posting even if no one read this blog, ever. I just wanted to start writing. But as you have started reading and started commenting - I have been given a wonderful sense of connection. I guess what I'm trying to say is thank-you. I'm grateful for the chance to share these little thoughts.

Thanks for the validation.