The Off Guard Compliment

Did you ever get a compliment that caught you off guard?

I got one last night.

A friend of ours was talking to my wife. She told my wife that when she is sad, or feeling a little stressed, there is something that she thinks of that brightens her day.

The thing that she thinks of is…my smile. She said, “sometimes I think to myself, is he really happy like that all the time? And then I realize that, yah, he is.” So she pictures my smile in her head when she wants a little pick-me-up!! Of course, when I heard this, I was touched, I was honored, and I was a little surprised. Even though I dedicate my life to making others happy (which makes ME happy), I was caught off guard by the fact that I didn’t even have to do anything to inspire someone else…except just be me!

Maybe I shouldn’t be surprised. There are people who have inspired me who probably don’t even realize it.

On a larger scale, I was inspired to be the kind of singing piano player that I am by the likes of Barry Manilow, Elton John, and Billy Joel.

On a closer-to-home scale, I was (and still am) inspired by friends of mine like Barry Spilchuk (Author of Cup of Chicken Soup for the Soul), John Kinde (www.humorpower.com), and Joan Hahn (High School theater teacher).

At home, my parents inspired me to be the kind of husband that never argues with his wife…just by their example. One of my brothers inspired me to REALLY start losing weight…‘cause he was worried about me cutting my life short (since then, I have lost over 100 pounds). And I have tons of friends, mentors, co-workers, and siblings that inspire me constantly. (you know who you are)

Are YOU inspiring people just by living a certain way? You probably are. I sure hope so!

I am inspired by the fact that you are reading this little article all the way to the end!

Thank you!!

Have a happy day filled with Love, Life, Light, and Laughter!!

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