I have been reflecting upon the difference one simple word or action can make, either positive or negative.

One of the most impactful weekends of my life didn’t involve something huge, rather it was spending a Friday night dinner at 14 years old with a saintly Rabbi, who treated me like one of his own, even though I looked different. I expected to be treated differently since I didn’t fit in with the crowd, yet I wasn’t; I felt like family, I felt like I belonged, which is something I will take with me for the rest of my life. It wasn’t any grand gesture that had such a big impact on me, it was simply being treated with love and without judgment.

I have often asked people I have the privilege of working with, what is most important to them? They’ve resoundingly said, “make sure I don’t feel judged”. A simple lack of judgment gives so many the safety to heal.

In the Hebrew language, there are certain vowels where if you’re spelling a word and you’re literally one vowel off, a word can go from meaning life to meaning death.

The reason for this, is kindness, love, and life reside in the smallest details. Complimenting someone, acknowledging someone, and sincerely being interested in their wellbeing are all simple, yet extremely profound acts.

What is a simple, yet profoundly impactful gesture that you like to receive? Similarly, what is a simple, profound gesture you find meaningful to show others in your life?

This week, let’s be quick to compliment and slow to criticize. Let’s greet everyone with a smile, and make an effort to do it sincerely, for true beauty lies in the details.

Accountability, Community, Unconditional Love

Asher

I want to remind all of you that you can hear more on my podcast, Showing Up. We have lots of amazing shows with interesting guests on a variety of personal development topics. It would be great if you could also rate 5 stars, review and subscribe to the show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/showing-up-with-asher-gottesman/id1489856285y

Posted in Thought of the Week