ROCK thru with more ways to show someone they matter
ABUNDANT LIVING SERIES
by Lee Havenga | October 10, 2024
We all want the people in our lives to feel valued, but in the busyness of everyday life, we often overlook how to show someone they matter through small, meaningful actions. Life gets busy, and it’s easy to miss small opportunities to express love and appreciation.
Even something as ordinary as a favorite mug can make a significant impact. My husband and I have one yellow mug that we both love—it’s the last one from a set we had for years. One morning, during a time when our communication was struggling, I realized I wasn’t always showing my husband that I valued him. Instead of using the mug myself, I set it by the coffee maker for him. It was a small gesture, saying, “I see you and care about your preferences.” The next day, he left the mug by my tea kettle. That little act of Kindness became a quiet ritual between us—a way to remind each other, every day, that we matter.
Whether it’s your partner, a friend, or a colleague, these small, thoughtful gestures go a long way, especially during difficult times. In today’s Abundant Living series, we’ll explore how the principle of Kindness can help you ROCK thru with more ways to show someone they matter to build stronger relationships.
“Kindness is doing what you can, where you are, with what you have.”
― a RAKtivist (Random Acts of Kindness Activist)
KINDNESS
Apply it
Kindness is the foundation of all meaningful Connections. It’s about truly seeing the other person and making sure they feel seen, heard, and valued. When we intentionally connect with others, we create space for deeper understanding and vulnerability. But Kindness isn’t just about grand gestures—the small, consistent actions often show someone they matter most. By focusing on mindful listening, remembering the little things, and offering acts of service, you can strengthen your relationships and make a lasting impact on the people you care about.
Apply it:
Listen Mindfully: One of the most powerful ways to show someone they matter is by truly listening. When you’re in a conversation, give your full attention—put away distractions like your phone and focus on what the other person is saying. Reflect on their words and ask thoughtful follow-up questions to show that you’re engaged and genuinely care about their thoughts and feelings. Being present can make people feel heard, understood, and valued.
In The Power of Now, Eckhart Tolle emphasizes the importance of presence and deep listening in building meaningful relationships. Focusing on the moment and genuinely engaging shows that the other person matters to you.
Remember Details: Pay attention to the little things that make a person feel seen. Whether it’s their favorite snack, a specific way they like their coffee or an upcoming event they’re excited about, remembering these details and acting on them shows you care. For example, surprising someone with their favorite treat or sending a message wishing them luck on a big day are small gestures that communicate, “I see you, and you matter to me.”
Lift a burden: Actions speak louder than words, and thoughtful gestures can go a long way. Doing something to lift a burden without being asked—whether taking care of a task a partner has been putting off or helping when you know they’re overwhelmed—demonstrates that you’re attuned to their needs and willing to go out of your way to support them. This kind of intentional care lets them know they’re valued.
In The Art of Happiness, the Dalai Lama reminds us, “If you want others to be happy, practice compassion.” Acts of Kindness are not just nice gestures—they are ways of showing others they are seen and valued.
When you apply Kindness, you deepen your relationships and remind the people around you that they truly matter. Every small gesture, every thoughtful action, builds a bridge that strengthens the bonds you share with others. The more you practice Kindness, the more you’ll see your relationships thrive in meaningful ways. ROCK thru and show someone they matter.
XO ~ Lee
Sources:
Tolle, Eckhart. The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment. Namaste Publishing, 1997
Lama, Dalai, and Howard Cutler. The Art of Happiness: A Handbook for Living. Riverhead Books, 1998
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