Sharing the Love of God

I love being generous with compliments and appreciation. I often have a kind word for friends and strangers alike. Some are offered in passing—“Nice earrings,” or “I like your tie.” Others might have their roots in gratitude for a kindness I received—“You are so thoughtful,” or “That was so nice of you.” No matter to whom the words are directed, the intention is the same. I want those I recognize to feel seen and appreciated.

It's a big payoff considering how little effort it takes. All it really requires is paying attention and committing to seeing the good in people and giving voice to it. Anyone can do it. In fact, once you get used to doing it, it becomes so automatic that you don’t even have to think about it.

I’ve found that receiving compliments is a bit more of a challenge. In fact, the more meaningful the compliment, the more likely I will be to deflect it. I’ve noticed I have the tendency to cancel out a kind comment by offering a similar one in kind. If someone else takes time to appreciate something I’ve done for them, I may counter their sentiment by saying I wish I would have done more. I may water down praise by offering up a list of things I’ve gotten wrong.

The Free-flowing Love of God

It’s important to remember that loving and feeling loved is for everyone every day of the year. As spiritual beings, divine love is not only within us, it is part of us. And like every other aspect of our spiritual inheritance—peace, wholeness, wisdom—it is inexhaustible. Indeed, the more we share it and the more we welcome it, the more the experience of love will flourish in our hearts, minds, and lives.

What does that have to do with giving and receiving compliments and other nice sentiments? A couple of things. First, it’s an easy thing to do. It’s a way to condition your thinking to notice the best in people and lift them up by letting them know. Second, and even more important, it’s how you can recognize any resistance on your part to receive the free-flowing love of God. If you find yourself deflecting words of kindness and recognition, pause and gently ask yourself why. You may discover some lingering self-criticism or old beliefs that you are somehow less than what you are—a beloved child of God. Pay attention to the kind words you receive and let yourself take them in with gratitude. After all, others couldn’t see your goodness, your value and your worth, if it wasn’t there.

Love others generously. Receive the love that comes your way wholeheartedly. As more and more of us commit to doing that, the love of God will enlighten every mind and fill every heart to overflowing.

This was a Daily Word editor’s letter. To subscribe to Daily Word, please visit https://shop.unityonline.org/subscribe.