If people's bodies were the physical size of their impact on the world, Martin Luther King, Jr. would have dwarfed the clouds. So would have Mother Theresa and Gandhi.

   These three beings – who were, of course, our size – affirmed towering principles. They honored our humanity in world-changing ways.

   How do you affirm others in your own way?

   Affirmation is one of Love's greatest powers. If I tell you I love you I have complimented more than your behavior. I have recognized the beauty in your soul and thanked your spirit. 

   Love warms you like the sun snuggling into the dish towel.

   In some places caregivers are ordered to send thank you notes. These may be helpful. But kind words are about more than the science of penning compliments.

   Affirming language and gestures matter when they arise from sincerity. They not only recognize the receiver but energize you. 

   Love flows through an open heart. A closed heart is a damaged one. 

   Part of the art of affirmation comes in how you express it.   Specific thanks reflect thoughtfulness. 

   If you have worked especially hard to help a person they can say, "Thank you." It will mean more to you if they say, "Thank you for the way you cradled my head when you fed me, for the way you sat with me and how you listened to me when I was afraid."

   An artist friend of mine, Lisa Ernst, shares some of her gorgeous photographs on Facebook (including one, left.) Some post responses like, "Nice pic" or "Awesome." 

   How does more specific affirmation feel? "I love the way the tree curves over the lake, how you caught its reflection, how you captured the dawn awakening the water, how you waited until the light was right."

   Radical Loving Care always calls us to go beyond. Specific compliments take more effort and more deeply affirm the light in another.

   You become a pathway through which your heart meets the spirit of another. You celebrate Love.

-Erie Chapman 

Photos: "Dish Cloth" by erie chapman. Morning mist by Lisa Ernst