I was recently invited to join a chain mail type email thing. This is not something I ever have, or thought I would ever do. But, as it encouraged me to send a note of encouragement to a stranger and held the prospect of insight into other people’s source of inspiration, I bit. I said yes to the chain letter, and sent off my missive. And if only to share one of my favorite quotes about the power of positive thinking (and positive boozing), I share it with you.
The Email:
We’re starting a collective, constructive, and hopefully uplifting exchange. It’s a one-time thing and we hope you will participate. We have picked those we think would be willing and make it fun. Please send an encouraging quote or verse to the person whose name is in position 1 below (even if you don’t know them). It should be a favorite text verse/ motivational poem/ prayer/meditation that has lifted you when you were experiencing challenging times. Don’t agonize over it – it is one you reach for when you need it or the one that you always turn to.
(Followed by chain mail directive to send encouragement to name #1, move name #2 into that spot, then add your name into the now-open spot #2.)
My Response:
Dear Timothy,
I hope this Saturday finds you full of vigor and happiness wherever you are. I’m not sure how you feel about lipstick, but I’m certain, with just a few minor tweaks, most people can relate to my favorite quote. On a filing cabinet next to my desk, I have hung these words from the inimitable Liz Taylor:
“Pour yourself a drink, put on some lipstick, and pull yourself together.”
Again, I’m not sure where you stand on lipstick wearing and/or sobriety, but the gist is: whatever the heck it is that makes you feel strong and powerful, do that thing. Do that thing, especially in the face of adversity, whether that means you’ve burned the roast and the company will be arriving shortly, or you’ve just lost your job and you don’t know how you’re going to pay the mortgage, or if you simply CANNOT with your micro-managing boss today – you do that thing what braces you. Now you look like a million bucks. And maybe you start to feel like you look. And maybe that gives you the strength to get through your day when you’re tapped out.
Timothy, I hope your life is all roses and exceptional architecture and fine scotch by candlelight on a tropical beach. But when it isn’t, I hope you remember these words, and you find the power within yourself to be as boss as Liz Taylor.
If you were invited to participate in this positivity chain, what would your words of encouragement to a stranger be?