A few days ago I was hiking in one of my favorite towns in my homeland. The hike itself wasn’t challenging; technically, you’d walk for around 30 minutes uphill till you reach a spot where you have a beautiful panoramic view of the town and the mountains around. Usually tourists and some locals will be there right before sunset as the whole scene becomes most picturesque around that time.
I did my hike, reached the spot, took some pictures, meditated a bit, and played some chess games on my phone, then as it started to get darker and quieter, I felt it was time to go home.
On my way back, I started to feel the early symptoms of catching a cold. It was winter, and my nose was already running when I began to sneeze. I felt a bit upset as it was gonna somehow ruin my vacation in a place I do love, but I accepted it as I learned in life that acceptance is always the strongest move.
Halfway through, I spotted a street vendor who was preparing fresh orange juice sideways, and I felt it was a good idea to get some vitamin C and have a bit of rest before resuming my journey.
While the guy was peeling the oranges, I had a chat with him and asked some questions here and there. I’m a warm, outgoing guy by nature, and I love striking up a conversation with genuine strangers when I see fit.
While drinking my freshly prepared juice, I loved how delicious it was. I never add sugar to natural juices, and every time I order one, I make it clear that I want no sugar added. Generally speaking, I don’t frequently find particularly tasty orange juices; most times it’s ok, sometimes it’s not that good, and every once in a while it’s excellent. That day I got lucky.
Once I finished my drink, handed the glass back to the vendor, and paid, I told him genuinely and sincerely, “The juice is amazing; I loved it! I don’t often encounter such quality”. I said it in a genuine, sincere way, expecting nothing in exchange.
As he heard my words, his face lit up, a smile appeared on his face, and right away he started to peel some more oranges before addressing me, “This extra glass is for free from my heart, and thanks for your words”.
It was a beautiful moment, a moment of sincere and genuine appreciation, and a moment of pure gratitude between two strangers. Those kinds of things that give life all its meaning and beauty.
I’m a man who has certain principles and values in life, and one of them is justice and fairness.
I believe that the same way we are fervent and outspoken when we’re unhappy about the quality of what we receive (whether it be services, goods, or value for money), we should equally compliment and applaud when the quality is outstanding or when someone goes above and beyond our expectations.
We often assume that people are just concerned about money, and this couldn’t be more wrong! Yes, while money is paramount and everybody wants to be fairly compensated for their efforts, we often overlook how powerful and impactful a kind compliment & appreciation can be.
Humans enjoy and need to be complimented from time to time. Never miss a chance to compliment someone when it’s truly deserved; just make sure it’s authentic and sincere, and most importantly, do it without expecting anything in return.
You’ll be amazed how such a simple habit can increase people’s happiness and can make you a better person and a more appreciated and loved one.
