Friends, I did something last week that a couple of years ago I wouldn't be caught dead doing.
I went out in public with no make up on, sweatpants, my Thursday socks (yes, they say Thursday), and sandals. In my mind's eye, I was quite the sight. I hadn't intended leaving the house until a couple of book orders came in. I knew if I didn't mail the books on this day, it would be a couple of days before I could. I hate to disappoint my customers.
As I entered the post office, I flashed a smile to an elderly man in the lobby. He smiled back.
I chatted with the postmaster, joked with the FedEx guy that came in, and after I mailed my books, when I went back through the lobby the elderly man was leaving. I again smiled at him and held the door open, as he was behind me.
He commented, "It's a gorgeous day outside. I'm glad I rose early and mowed the lawn."
"I bet. It's going to be a hot one, but I love it." I responded
Parting our separate ways, he said, "Keep smiling. It looks good on you."
His heartfelt, kind words made my day.
I bounded back to my car and then took a selfie. You see, stripped down with no makeup causes me all types of insecurities. I feel ugly. For years my husband has always told me he thinks I look better without makeup. I've never believed it. But I always knew he didn't marry me for my looks, because he'd seen me at 3:00 a.m. in the police academy with no makeup, hair slicked back in a tight bun, going on no sleep. If he could like me then, he must be a keeper.
The man's words hit me and got me to thinking about inner beauty. I was self-conscious going into the post office, but one of the simple gifts I know I can give is my smile. It's a way for my inner beauty to shine and part of the clouds of my insecurities. I realized that smiling, a free gift, raises my confidence.
I reflected on the years that I've been on my daily giving journey and how smiling at strangers, especially making eye contact and smiling at homeless people, even if rejected and receive no smile in return, has grown my confidence. But what I've found, is more times than not, even those frowning or appearing to be in a mad mood, smile back.
Do you have insecurities? I'm sure you do! Think about how giving, even a smile, can help you build your confidence, push you to step out of your comfort zone, and see yourself like others see you.
Happy Giving,
Stephanie
"The Giving Challenge: 40 Days to a More Generous Life"
Inspirational Speaker and Award-Winning Author of