How to Be an Influential Person

I have learned that in general, there are three types of people:

1. Those that choose to speak their mind, opinions, and frustrations – almost always assuming and pointing out the worst
2. Those that choose to express their gratitude and appreciation – almost always assuming and pointing out the best
3. Those that choose not to speak their mind at all

Which category would you say you fit in most days?

We recently received this email in regards to our Angel Gowns Project:

Good morning!
I just wanted to take a moment to say thank you for all that you wonderful people are doing. My husband and I decided not to have children several years ago. We realize this decision will take us away from some of the most precious moments in life but with our nephew and several of our friends children that call us “Aunt Shell and Uncle B” we are content. We will celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary this year and have been together since high school. I found a Facebook post that someone had her wedding dress made into these tiny and beautiful dresses/gowns to give to a local hospital for babies that become angels far too soon. I absolutely LOVED this idea and immediately signed up to have my beautiful wedding gown turned into something that would help others. Anyone that knows me would also know that I live my life paying it forward and this would be something so special that I really wanted to do. With my wedding gown sealed in a box since 1997 and with no one to hand it down to, I want to take something that was a wonderful reminder of a a very special day to hopefully ease the pain for a family that lost their sweet little loved one. Being able to give them a beautiful gown to place their sweet child in is bittersweet. It breaks my heart that any parent would ever have to go through something like this but I smile through the tears thinking how kind, thoughtful and so much love in this beautiful fabric.

Thank you to every single one of you and I know this wonderful project has touched the hearts of so many in this world. I know it may be several months (and possibly a year or more) before my wedding gown is ready for me to ship to you but I truly think you are doing some incredible things. You all are appreciated and loved so much!

-Michele

Michele chose to spend her time and efforts to express her gratitude and appreciation, and it completely made our day! Sadly, these emails are few and far between.

I have come to realize how powerful and influential people are that choose to express their gratitude and appreciation, always looking for and assuming the best!

You can choose to not speak your mind. You can choose to speak your frustrations. But when you choose to speak your mind for good, that’s when you become influential in peoples lives.

Thank you Michele! You inspired us today.