Speak your appreciation

For some reason lately I've thought a lot about how we as women support and encourage one another—or not. Certainly, we see plenty of examples daily or weekly of women cutting one another down, being critical and judgmental. At our best, however, we know how to build up, encourage and support one another. We know how to speak our gratitude and encouragement, but do we take the time?

So when I read this in one of last week's daily readings in Mark Nepo's The Book of Awakening: Having the Life You Want by Being Present to the Life You Have, I took notice:

"Meditate on what these statements mean to you, and then speak them to a loved one:
• "I appreciate you and your heart.
• "I want the channel of heart to be wide open between us.
• "I make a promise to you that if misunderstandings or conflicts should grow between us, I will share them with you directly and not let them build or grow in a hidden way.
• "I would count the same promise from you as a blessing."

I imagined how much my relationships and friendships might deepen if I spoke such words to those I love and care about. I often think about how much I appreciate someone. But do I stop and take the time to tell them? Do I speak the words? Thinking them is a great start—but I need to take that next step and speak the words.