Pick one or two of these, and try them out when family or friends show up for your celebration:
Instead of: “Did you get everything you wanted?”
Better: “Did you give everything you wanted?”
Instead of: “I worked really hard to get ready for you.”
Better: “I’m so glad you’re here.”
Instead of: “Time for dinner.”
Better: “Time to hang out with my favorite people.”
Instead of: “Let’s say grace.”
Better: “What a gift – to have all of you here. I’m grateful – let me express that.”
Instead of: “Turn off that TV. This is family time.”
Better: “They’re enjoying watching the game. How about you and me go for a walk?”
Instead of: (Any type of complaint)
Better:
Instead of: “What a mess! I’ll be cleaning forever.”
Better: “The best part of a mess? It means there was love in the house today.”
Instead of: “I have to cook for so many people.”
Better: “I get to cook for so many people.”
Instead of: “Christmas is so commercial.”
Better: “Yeah, Christmas is commercial – but it’s an excuse for us to get together.”
Instead of: “I love you.”
Better: “I love you. Always have. Always will. Don’t forget.”
Words are powerful. Choose them wisely. Choose them intentionally.
Try a couple out – and tell us how it goes! (Comment)
Ximena Meléndez says
Merry Christmas!! My words for today are: “Thanks God for your son, the best Gift too wonderful for words”.
Mike Bechtle says
Thanks, Ximena – Great words for the holidays!