Friday, August 22
- Scripture: Proverbs 15:30 – “Light in a messenger’s eyes brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.”
- Reflection: According to researchers, 93% of what we say to people is conveyed without words. About 55% of communication is done through body language and 38% through tone.
Again, people have always understood this wisdom, that we can transmit mood and emotion without words. Or even voice. Posture, facial expression, hand gestures, and so many other parts of our bodies translate information.
Do you notice when someone else’s energy and attitude lift or weigh down a shared experience? Who in your life brings you light and cheer? Who upholds your own good spirits? Or bolsters you when you’re struggling? Who demands your energy, and makes you tired?
Choosing companions, whenever possible, who build us up, is a form of good self-care and sustainable relationship building. Most of us will need to be available to people who need our attention and time and energy. This involves giving of ourselves.
Being with those who nurture our wellbeing, in return, helps restore balance and contentment in our lives. People can help renew each other’s positive outlook and mood. We act, in so many ways, as God’s agents of care and love for each other. We even do so for strangers.
Even without words, our expressions, our smiles, our hands, our relaxed and open body language, can exude connection and good cheer. We can share this, without ever touching someone, by how we look at and respond to them. Waving. Grinning. Mirroring others’ postures and gestures. Being a conveyor of optimism transforms both the giver and receiver. Today, let your presence be a source of light and joy to those around you, just as you also seek out those who offer the same for you. - Spiritual Practice Prompt: Make a conscious effort to share good news or a positive message with someone today, sharing kindness and uplifting others.
Song:
- “Send Me on My Way” by Rusted Root: https://youtu.be/IGMabBGydC0?si=EGXbGGlZaHMSRGV8
Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy. ― Thich Nhat Hanh
August 22 Daily Devotional