You know how your mother probably told you that if you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all? Well, National Say Something Nice Day on June 1 gives you the opportunity to practice that, through sharing the kindness to others through words.

It has been said that “they may forget what you said- but they will never forget how you made them feel” (Carl W. Buehner). This special holiday allows you to be remembered as you lift the spirits of friends, family, co-workers, or anybody by doing something as simple as sharing some kind words, verbally or even through a letter. This act can share positive energy for both the giver and receiver.

It is important, however, that this day doesn’t just become an opportunity to share false compliments. The purpose of this day is to show gratitude and appreciation without it being forced.

A bit of brainstorming and planning could help make those compliments beneficial. Take your time figuring out what you like or appreciate about the person, and consider some people you like or appreciate. Perhaps you are grateful for a specific teacher. Why not write a letter expressing your gratitude? Maybe you feel that you haven’t thanked a family member for their support during the pandemic. You might want to pick up the phone and give them a call.

How did National Say Something Nice Day begin? “ It was proclaimed by Mayor Keith Summey of North Charleston, South Carolina to counteract bullying and the lack of civility and common courtesy that is growing among people in today’s world” (everykind.com). He did this “in recognition of the communication efforts of specialist Dr. Mitch Carnell, founder of the day. Carnell is also the author of Say Something Nice: Be a Lifter at Work. The South Baptist Convention and the Charleston-Atlantic Presbytery joined with Carnell to establish the day” (broncoburgers.com)  

So, today, try lifting somebody’s mood with your positive words. It could be a work friend, family, or classmate. You might not realize the impact you have, but they’ll remember it for a long time.