There have been way too many times I have thought, “Oh, that will be fine to wait until tomorrow, I can do it later.” Or, “I might have something to say, but they don’t need to hear one more compliment.” I have some sobering news for you: death is right around the corner. You might not be given the chance again. Just do it!

I attended a funeral this weekend of a man who helped to shape my life in my younger years. His life and actions spoke more to me than his words ever did; yet his words backed up his actions. At his funeral, I was able to see other people who had shaped my life in one way or another. As I saw these people, a familiar memory would come to mind and I began to share with them how much this memory meant to me and why I enjoyed thinking about them. I even told one guy I thought about him just about every time I ate popcorn because he ate popcorn all the time when I was at his house. Literally, every time! And, he even started making some for me. Then, there was a lady who entrusted her kids to me and allowed me to cook with them while babysitting. I also saw a young lady I’ve known throughout the years and reminded her of how proud I was of how she’s allowing God to work in her life.

As my conversations would come to an end, I would say goodbye, give them all hugs, and would tell them how great it was to see them. Then, I told them I loved them. This was not a scripted speech I would give but more of a realization I might not see them again in order to be able to tell them how much they mean to me. I realized there was no excuse to put it off: I was there and I just needed to do it!

As we’ve walked these past few months in our family, God has shown up many times through kind words, kind actions, and food! I have felt God’s love over and over again. There is no denying the effects love has on people. It is encouraging, uplifting, and empowering. As Valentine’s Day has just past, whether you believe in celebrating it or not, what’s wrong with showing others we care?

Do you have someone in  your life who profoundly impacted you by their sacrifices and services? Were they your parents? Your Sunday School teacher? Your teacher at school? What about a friend of your parents? Or, was it one of your close friends? We all have someone who directed us in life and showed us love. It is our duty and obligation to pass this along to others because that’s what love does. Love cannot be held inside of us: it needs to spill over into others.

Today, think of someone and let them know what they mean to you. Comment below and let us know how you were able to do this. Don’t put it off: Just do it!

Image courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net / Theeradech Sanin

© 2017 Susan M. Sims

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