the importance of complimenting those you love

When I say “compliment those you love,” I’m not necessarily referring to the compliments we hear most often.

Ones like “you’re so pretty” or “I love your outfit” are no doubt endearing and brighten peoples' days, but recognizing people's unique qualities and the reasons you love them, then complimenting them on that is so much more meaningful.

This doesn’t mean that telling somebody you think they look good, or that you love their new jacket isn’t important too — it is — but when somebody is close to you, you understand their characteristics, traits and personality on a deeper level.

It’s my own personal philosophy that people, relationships and the connections we make as we navigate life are subjectively the most important parts of it. It would be a waste not to recognize the aspects of others that attract us to them, because it allows us to understand people on a much deeper level.

And, after all, making others feel good is one of life's ultimate rewards.

As I’ve grown older, I’ve realized the importance of my friendships. Even ones that are fleeting are powerful, and those that I’ve loved and lost; I’m just as grateful for. But with this realization comes my desire to better appreciate those around me — whether it be their comforting energy, the ability to have intellectual conversations with them, their inclination to help me grow as a person, or their ability to make me laugh even when I’m crying.

People are mosaics — thousands of shards of lived experiences, backgrounds, talents, hobbies and characteristics — and there can be so much gratitude in recognizing the colorful distinctions that make them, them.

I keep a in my notes page dedicated to the unique things I love about everyone I’m close to: from their personality, to our memories, to their treatment of myself and others.

Although this isn’t necessary, it not only allows me to grant my friends and family what they deserve (the opportunity to be appreciated for these special parts of themselves), but allows me to remain grateful for the people I love so, so, so much.

This is your reminder to love wholeheartedly and compliment those you do.

♡ Sophia Rundle