If you see something, say something!

"If you see something, say something!" 

Our future depends on it.

This morning, I was complimenting the staff at a Marriott Courtyard in Houston for just how exceptional the culture of customer service was at this particular property. Something was subtly better, in the midst of generally good cultural dynamics at almost all Marriotts. So much so, that I've given direct, positive feedback to 6 different employees at this property.

Each appreciated it, and you could tell they were proud of the experiences that their common efforts were creating for others.

I was able to invite another road-warrior, who was checking out at the same time as me this morning, into this conversation, and he agreed. I could see that just being given the opportunity to share his appreciation made him smile and feel better too. It was apparent in the way his face and posture changed during our collective conversation with the front desk clerk.

To keep ourselves safe from danger, we are told "If you see something, say something" but the current meaning of this is fear-based. All for the common good, but what if we ALSO added an appreciation-based component to "If you see something, say something"?

Here is the challenge for myself and my creative clan: Let's leave little packages wherever we go that explode feelings of joy and appreciation. And be present enough to elevate the general mood of as many people as we can. I think it will help keep us safe, and I know it will make us happier while we are alive.

UPDATE: An expert in "pre-appreciation" drove up my driveway today to buy some maple syrup. We got to chatting. Pre-appreciation? Fantastic concept, and a masterful way to impact ourselves and the world around us. Check out Tammy joy Lane's TEDx talk here. We traded books, and I just finished hers. EXACTLY what I mean about leaving little exploding packages everywhere we go. Nicely done, Tammy!