Have you ever met someone who is so fantastic, so wonderful, so great, that there were no words that do justice when describing them? They are just simply FANTABULOUS! I have the privilege and the pleasure each week of listening to, learning about, and getting to know my friend Lisa. She works in my "new office" at Panera Bread, the place I go to write and think. Every week, I watch her work, interact with customers, and make the world a happier place to be. In a recent conversation, I told Lisa how much she makes me smile,and that I loved coming to "work" because of her. After that comment, I was surprised by her response. Looking straight into my eyes, she asked: What makes you love me so much? WOW! It took a few minutes, but I sat her down next to me and told her straight up.
Lisa, it is your…
- unfettering honesty-the way you tell it like it is!
- smile that can brighten any room
- the pride you take on every aspect of your work; making sure you leave nothing undone
- determination to never quit; I have never seen you give less than 100 percent.
- transparency and willingness to share with the world everything you are-what you think, what you feel, what you need without waiver
- generosity-you are a giver
I went on for several more minutes, and as I continued her face lit up. She was literally bouncing at one point in the conversation. This was a moment for us both!
This conversation with Lisa, has got me thinking. Do we tell those we love-why they are so beloved? Do we let them know EXACTLY what they do and how they do things that bring joy to our lives? Do we do that with friends? family? our students?
It was a wonderful feeling being specific with Lisa. Watching her face and seeing her reaction is motivation to continue the experience with others in my life. In my work with teachers and students, I wonder what the outcome could bring if we did the same.
I invite you to see for yourself. The next time you hear yourself saying: Good Job, I love That, You are Terrific…take a minute to sit down and tell that someone exactly why that is so. Let me know how it felt, for both parties. This lesson from Lisa can make us all a little more FANTABULOUS-don’t you think?
