I was at a funeral the other day and was struck by how many people got up and said the most wonderful things about the person who had passed. Stories that made everyone laugh, compliments about their character, and even wisdom they had gleaned.

And the one person who deserves to hear it most… can’t.

There’s something about that reality that has really messed with me enough that I’ve become almost adamant about this one thing:

Say it now.

If you think something kind about someone, tell them, to their face if you can.

I’ll be honest — it might feel awkward. You might stumble over your words. You may even need to find a “reason” to say it. Maybe you write it in a card. Maybe you send a quick text between meetings. Maybe you pull them aside for just a second.

But say it.

If you think your coworker handled something with grace — tell her.
If you admire how your friend shows up for people — tell him.
If your spouse is carrying more than you realized — tell them.

Yesterday we had a going-away lunch for one of our coworkers, Jennifer. I’ve worked with her for five years. She’s amazing. She’s steady. She’s crazy talented. And she’s very introverted.

So naturally, I did what I always do…

I said, “Okay everybody, we’re going around the table. It’s time to tell Jennifer what we love about her.”

Cue the groans.
“Joy, you always make us do this…”

But as everyone started sharing, I stopped listening to the words for a second and started watching Jennifer’s face.

At some moments, tears welled up in her eyes.
At others, she was absolutely beaming.
You could see it really effecting her

And I had this overwhelming thought:

We should’ve been telling her this stuff for the last five years!

Why do we save our best words for the end?
Why do we wait for goodbye?
Why do we wait for tragedy?

Let’s normalize encouragement.

So here’s your nudge today (and mine too) to say what you love about those around you.

If you think something kind about someone…
Don’t assume they know.
Don’t wait for a “perfect” moment.
Don’t save it for a speech you hope you never have to give.

Give the gift of encouragement to someone today! - Joy