Day 2: Make People Feel They Matter

It's the day after my birthday, and yes I'm on day two of my life matters project. Watching a great BMW commercial that states "what you make people feel is just as important as what you make."

My husband must have watched the commercial because he's giving me another birthday dedication and it's the day after my birthday.  He tells me that the only thought that should matter is that I trust Him.  I say, "okay with me!" but like a woman, wonder what's planned.

He left work early yet  I ended my work day at the usual time. We both dressed up, and one hour later a car service held us in the back seat  heading toward Washington, DC to an undisclosed location.  My husband squeezed my hand along the way, and I was as giddy as when we first met.  He seemed to read my thoughts, when he asked, "do you want to know where you're going?"

I knew it was important to him that I be enthusiastic. I replied with sincere enthusiasm, "you know I am. I want to know where we're going. Don't you want me to know?"    He seemed content with my response and just gave me one of his big adoring smiles, laughed, offered nothing and zero hints.

I looked out the window thinking this guy I call my husband sure knows how to make a woman feel joy in her heart. This is definitely a day that a woman would not be thinking she wants a trade. It was like I was in BMW's commercial, only we were in a Lincoln Town Car.  When we pulled up  to the Kennedy Center and  were ushered into the Stevie Wonder Concert, I was filled with more joy.

That night we danced to the music of Stevie Wonder. As Steve sang "Higher Ground" my husband's actions told me I was important and his eyes said my joy mattered to him. There was no need for one of those "he loves; he loves me not moments." I was feeling like our relationship was on higher ground.

At the end of the evening I thanked him and let him know that would never forget what he did for me. I showed him his actions mattered.

Lesson 2 in Every day like it matters:
The way you make people feel matters, especially around significant events, like a birthday. Show them by making a sacrifice or doing something you wouldn't normally do.  Leave work early.  Take time off for the ones you love and  consider buying tickets to an event.  If you are on the receiving end of a you matter event, don't forget to show that what was done matters too.