A smile is a curved line that makes all things straight. And it begins with a few simple sincere words like, “You have such a beautiful sense of colour” or “You are the best doctor in the world!”

Even itsy bitsy acknowledgement can strike a right note. Experts put ‘appreciation for each other’ only second to ‘love’ in the list of qualities for a happy relationship. When you express appreciation, you are letting people “see their greatness”. You are inspiring them to live successfully.

Appreciation infuses a lush rosy zeal into our spirit. We want to sing, dance ‘n’ give-give-give….! Natural make up, methinks. It’s said that when Lord Shiva sits in samadhi, the universe is a seed inside him. When he dances in joy, the universe explodes into being. Likewise, when our spirit soars, a Shivaic energy pours out of us to re-build our life, re-create our attitude, reform our intentions, re-think our decision, restore our confidence, recharge our motivation. We want to stretch our boundaries, be better, kinder, more loving more….everything!

That’s why, there can never be an overdose of appreciation. Psychologist Tom Crabtree says, “We all need to feel that we are special, unique with something. Tell me about my weakness if you will. Don’t forget though to let me know about my strength.” For some reason, we don’t seem to have an authentic self-elevating ability. We need others to constantly motivate us with a kind remark.

You get what you give. If you want attention and appreciation, learn to give attention and appreciation. When you fill your mind with sweet admiration and pour it on another, you crate a divine field of goodwill all around. And that beautiful fragrant goodwill comes right back to you. You will be bouncing cheerily at the end of this simple exercise.

The great philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson often chided people for their reluctance to speak highly of others. Unfortunately, many people are tongue-tied when it comes to giving compliments. When the renowned footballer Pale was asked how he would like to be remembered, he replied, “I want no roads named after me. All I ask for is a small place in the heart of the people for whom I brought a little cheer.” I think he spoke for all of us.