When I Was Younger
At a family gathering recently, my uncle told me a story about my younger self that really opened my eyes… My Uncle Tom did not live close to my family but would stop by for dinner and a visit when he would drive through town. We usually knew when he was coming, but one night my Uncle Tom surprised us with a visit. When he came to the door who should answer but my five-year-old self. I opened the door and as soon as I saw him I could not hide my excitement! Leaving Uncle Tom outside, with the front door wide open, I ran back inside yelling, “UNCLE TOM IS HERE! UNCLE TOM IS HERE!”
The story continues, though, that I was the only person excited to see him. My older siblings were playing a game and did not want to take their eyes off of it. At the same time, my parents were busy with their own things. I ran through the house shouting at the top of my lungs, but my family did not see how important it was that Uncle Tom was there.
Uncle Tom finished this story by telling me how much love and importance he felt in that moment when I greeted him all those years ago. Even though my level of excitement was not met, I finished my loop around the house unphased. I simply let my pure joy and love for Uncle Tom be felt fully!
Childlike Excitement
After the story sunk in, I wondered what it would be like if I greeted every person I loved in this way. Pretty quickly I realized how amazing this would be- for me and my loved ones. No, you do not have to do a lap around the house announcing their arrival. (Although, your loved ones would definitely feel cared for.) Looking back, it is two simple things I did that made Uncle Tom feel so loved when I greeted him.
1 | I gave him my full attention.
2 | I blatantly showed him how happy he, and his presence, means to me.
These two things make such an impact.
The Lasting Impact
It has been decades since I greeted Uncle Tom at the door, but when he told me the story recently it was as if he was feeling that same love all over again. Using your words to tell someone how much they mean to you, how much you enjoy your time together, and how happy you are to have them in your life are powerful words to say with a lasting impact. The acts of giving someone our full attention and letting them know we care are so important. I like to think of these words and actions as a different way to run around the house because it sends my loved ones the same message.
Please comment below and tell me what you think of my idea to bring back your childhood excitement into your relationships! If you know someone who could benefit from this article, please show you care and share the bear! Be sure to sign up for my emails and follow on social media to get the most of the positive world of Brightside Bear!
Written with love just for you,
Brightside Bear
