The Human Baton

The Human Baton

Sharing the Language of Joy

 A Sixty-Word Short Story: *

Elaine stopped at the light and glanced at her rearview mirror to witness a young woman in the car behind her bouncing in her seat, arms flailing about. Although Elaine couldn’t hear anything, it appeared by the way her mouth moved that she was singing. It made her smile. Next light, Elaine burst into song delighting the driver just ahead.

And more…

 I think it’s amazing how contagious certain actions can become. A smile, frown, and a yawn evoke a sameness in response. All that we do, be it at home, work, or play is observed by others and how we go about what we do sends a signal to all that observe. And these signals don’t have to have any verbal cues for a telling message to be sent on how we’re feeling.

The ability to understand the relationship between verbal and non-verbal communication is a gift we all possess. We all can tell when our team feels defeated even though they are still shouting encouragement to each other. The body language never lies. And in the same way if someone is asking you to trust them, but can’t look you straight in the eye, it’s a sign to be wary.

I share all of this because this gift we have is great on the receiving end. But if we use it as a way to send it’s even more powerful. Like our friend Elaine, who by simply observing someone, having fun in the moment with a song, was able to apply the “feeling” and keep the chain going.

I suggest we consider the impact we can have by simply changing our demeanor, facial expression and energy level to impart something positive to another. Try it at work, or at home with the kids. Take a routine and “jazz” it up a bit. I’ll bet you’ll not only get noticed, but you’ll also get connected and possibly be able to pass the human baton of good feelings to someone that could really use it and who will pass it on as well. Let me know how it goes.

Final Thought: What’s in our heart always bubbles up to influence the way we act, look and are perceived. There is no denying its power or promise to turn any moment into a new journey.