Today was my birthday and my Facebook is full of birthday wishes and greetings. I use Facebook mobile so every time something is posted to my wall or a message is sent, it comes as a text message to my phone. Suffice it to say that my phone was buzzing pretty much all day.
While I realize that the birthdays of your friends on Facebook are listed on the right column of your news feed, it was still nice to have people take at least a few seconds to say “Happy Birthday.” I received messages from high school friends, family members, youth group students and former youth group members. Kind of a fun addition to the day. So, if you were one who sent a birthday message…thanks!
Another cool thing happened today that had nothing to do with my birthday. I went across the street to pick up some sandwiches and I saw a gentleman from our church. He came up, said hello, introduced himself (just to make sure I knew who he was) and then he shared some encouraging words. He mentioned a couple of things in my ministry that he appreciated and encouraged me to continue doing what I do. Then he said I had a $5 credit at the cash register. Before he came and spoke to me, he gave the cashier five bucks to apply to my order. I was caught off guard and moved by what he did. It would have been enough for him to say the encouraging words that he did; the five bucks was an added bonus.
It was a great reminder to me how the little things we do for others can be encouraging. Facebook comments. Small gifts. Written notes or spoken words. All those can go a long way in making someone’s day.