Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Hey! You're here! I like that about you!

I found this little film over at Jason's blog and I just had to snatch and patch it over here to share it with my readers. I'm excited about this mini movie because it summarizes one of my major life philosophies so well. I try to remind myself that we would all be so much better off if we were more affirming of each other on a daily basis. It's a Stewart Smalley thing but with the mirror sort of angled out so the compliment is reflected to others instead. "You're good enough, you're smart enough, and doggoneit people like youuuuuuu!"

What I've always just thought of as "encouragement" is really better termed in this film as "validation". Whatever the case, I decided long ago that if I have any sort of talent or special gift at all, it must be the talent of pointing out other peoples talents! YESS!! (Aside from the obvious talent of using the word "talent" multiple times in a sentence, of course.)

Giving encouragement or validation is such an easy thing to do and it certainly can improve a persons mood if done with kindness and sincerity. So, I'm once again challenged to use this... (dare I say talent again so soon? Ah well if you've got it flaunt it right?)TALENT to point out the good in people around me!

I want to be a highlighter pen in this world, not a red one, circling peoples mistakes and making nasty comments in the margins!

And now, as Jason did, I'll ask you to watch this clever film about validation.  It is a little on the long side, but I think if you take the time you'll also be inspired to focus on the good in people and see just how much of an impact a few kind words can have. 
 


Now, let's get out there and make some smiles happen people!  Who's with me?!! Gimme an S!!!...  

18 comments:

Mom Keena said...

Awwwww! So here's to one of the most strikingly beautiful women I know...you! You're great!

Tally said...

ShanNON!!! I LOVED THIS SOOOO MUCH!! I am stealing it and putting it on my blog too! XOXOXOXO

dive said...

This looks fun, Shan! I watched the first few minutes but I've now got to dash for my train. I'll have to finish it when I get home.
And by the ay, you are awesome! Hee hee.

Adelia said...

Yay! I love, love, love it!! This is something that I feel so strongly about...strong in a good way. :) And I gave you my morning computer time which means that you are fantastic!

Missy said...

YOU are GREAT!

Shan said...

Wow. I didn't realize I needed this validation so much from you! Who am I kidding? I'm a validation junkie!! I'm getting back in line for another stamp! I love it! Thank you so much!!!! Aren't you guys something? Wonderful friends I have...sigh... :D

Katie said...

Shan this was really a great little movie! I watched all of it over breakfast and I'll admit I was almost (almost I said) teary by the end. You really are lovely to share this with us. And did I mention how your outfit so highlights your pretty eyes? I'll have to dig up the photo of me with Stuart Smalley at a book reading in Minnesota he did years ago. I went because gosh darn it, I was worth it!

TRS said...

Thanks for this. What a cute little short. I needed that. I'm feeling ookie today.

Funny, when I worked at a store, my counter had a parking validation stamp for the parking garage. I would have fun when people asked for validation. "You are a fantastic person!" They would look at me bewildered... "That's your validation!" always got a smile even if it was accompanied by roll eyes.

Anonymous said...

Wow. This was great and after watching this I realized that I don't tell you enough that you are the kind of friend that I can always count on. I love your laugh, and the way you claim to be scatter-brained about things. I love the fact that raw beef makes you want to hurl, but you can still make the best meals with beef. I love how you are always trying to better yourself and in my eyes why better something that isn't broken. I love you Shan.
Your friend,
Arl

Anonymous said...
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
Shan said...

Oh Bageck! xoxox

Suzanne said...

This is a great post Shannon. I heard someone say once, treat everyone as if they had a sign around their neck that said, "I want to feel loved". I do not think I have made an intentional effort lately. Thank you for the reminder.

And you my dear are on of the funniest writers. I love to read what you write!

savannah said...

you are marvelous, sugar! xoxox

Bekah said...

Thanks for putting a little extra love in our hearts! You really are great and I love reading your blog!

Scout said...

A little validation can make a world of difference. Great film.

MmeBenaut said...

This is so YOU! What a gorgeous film. You've made my day sweet, fantastic, amazing SHAN! Thank you.

RoverHaus said...

Shan,

You are the mother supreme of encouragement.

No, you are, really!

Wendy said...

Shan, this is great!! (And, Suzanne, I love the thing about the sign around someone's neck. Great mental picture for me.)
Oh, to just feel loved and accepted. And to love and accept others.