Have you ever received flowers? Did you enjoy them? I am not much a “flower girl”, but once in a while I do enjoy them.
Many years ago, a very dear lady gave me a complement. To be honest, I don’t even remember what the conversation was about, but I remember being caught by surprised at the encouragement that was pouring from her to me.
At that time in my life, I didn’t know how to receive complements appropriately. I had been in situations where praise was freely given, but there was usually an ulterior motive behind them.
Then, something she said to me, I will never forget….
She said, “I don’t ever give flowers at funerals, I believe in giving ‘flowers’ when they are due.” Her sweet gesture of praise was her way of delivering the bouquet, in the moment. She also went on to tell me that she didn’t ever want to wait until it was too late to tell someone that you were proud of them, or that you loved them.
I learned a very valuable lesson that day….
Always give flowers when they are due!