Many people attribute this saying to St. Francis: “Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words when necessary.” He never said it. In fact, St. Francis was all about words: words to glorify God, words to give praise to God’s works in nature, words for repentance, and most of all, the Word of God. What about you? Do you only use words when it’s absolutely necessary? Maybe it’s just easier to send someone a text or e-mail. What would happen if you said something to someone when they weren’t expecting it? Today is the perfect day to say something…just because. Not sure what to say? Here are 11 great ideas.
- Say “Hello” -Do you pass people by every day without even a glance in their direction? What do you think would happen if you said hello to each of these people? Whether it’s at work, on the sidewalk, in a grocery store, wherever you are. Say hello…just because.
- Say “I Love You” – When is the last time you told your spouse you loved them? Has it been a while since you’ve spoken these words to your kids? Even if they haven’t done anything special, say I love you…just because.
- Give a Compliment – Most people like to receive compliments. When you give someone a compliment, you’re telling them you appreciate a trait they have. Sometimes, you like how they look or behave. Whether you like their outfit, hair, positive attitude, smile, or the way they dance, tell them that…just because.
- Say “I Forgive You” – Has someone wronged you? Have they hurt you? Whether they meant to or not, it’s best to forgive them and move on. Tell that person I forgive you…just because.
- Say “Thank You” – It’s easy to take people for granted. Maybe your husband makes sure your vehicle is running smoothly. Or your friend always buys you coffee. Maybe you show your appreciation in other ways, but it doesn’t hurt to say thank you…just because.
- Offer Encouragement – People don’t have to be struggling or going through a hard time to need encouragement. Everyone likes to hear that they are doing a great job or that they are a good friend. So offer them encouragement…just because.
- Share Something – Do you have a favorite passage of Scripture? If you do, share it or send it to someone…just because.
- Say “Yes” – Is “no” one of your favorite words? Maybe you don’t want to go to the restaurant your spouse picked. Or you always turn your friends down when they invite you to do something. Instead of no, try saying yes…just because.
- Say “Today Is a Good Day” – Whether you’re a morning person or not, say “today is a good day”…just because.
- Say “Please” – You probably tell your children to say please when they ask for something. Do you as an adult do the same? Saying please shows respect and consideration. It’s also nice to say please…just because.
- Say a Prayer -There are a lot of reasons to pray. People pray for direction in life, pray for someone you like, pray for someone you’re not that fond if, pray for others who are going through a hard time. But sometimes, there doesn’t need to be any reason at all. Say a prayer…just because.