WANNA INFLUENCE PEOPLE?

This fall there have been 3 things that I’ve had happen or observed that are worth stealing if you want to make a difference in the lives of students or families or even your friends. I can take credit for none of them. But all of them both inspired and challenged me.

CALL PEOPLE TO BRAG ABOUT THEM. No joke. 2 days ago my oldest sons public high school english teacher called the house. We were not home. So she left a voice mail. It was not because he missed an assignment or because he had a problem. It was just because she wanted to brag on him. Are you kidding me?

I figured out how to make a voice recording of it on my iphone, but I have no idea how to post it here. But I wrote it down. Here’s what she said:

Hi, this message is for Mr. and Mrs. Berry.

This is __________, TJ’s English teacher. And I’m just calling to let you know what an awesome student your son is. I like to call parents and give them some feedback on how their kids are doing. TJ is not only a leader in the class but he’s also a delight. He has a great sense of humor. He’s getting an A- in here just a wonderful wonderful boy. I’d like to commend you and also commend him. If you have any questions, you can give a call at _______________.

Ok… so honestly, when was the last time you called a parent to brag about their son or daughter? Crazy simple. Crazy impactful.

TEXT A NOTE: My wife texts love notes. My kids small group leaders text the encouragement notes. You should do this. I should do this. It really makes your day.

What could you text someone and say today that would light up their world and make them smile?

WRITE STICKY NOTES: The office across from mine is our college pastor. Her sister came in and wrote stupid sticky notes on stuff. Not like annoying 5000 of them on everything. I had that done to my office once. More like… one saying “your awesome”. a silly one saying “this is your door”. And a bunch more. I’m sure it took like 5 minutes and made her day. It made me smile.

Go ahead, write a sticky note reminder for yourself to use sticky notes. The use them in your friends houses, cars, and work places to stick amazingness everywhere. It will be awesome.