Free Compliments?

Maybe you've heard about the two guys at Purdue University who decided to start passing out compliments to their fellow students. A woman was so impressed with what she saw that she and another guy decided to do the same thing. I'm not kidding. Check them out. I made their story available for you. They carried a sign that said "free compliments". And, that was just what they did. They passed out compliments.


I was wondering, however, about compliments being free. I mean I know what they were saying. They didn't want anyone to think they were selling something. The people they were complimenting were, in fact, receiving something of legitimate value. They were genuinely there to give something away. The truth is, however, what they were giving away was not free. It did cost them both something. Time. They had to stop long enough to give and receive a compliment.


It might have been just for a moment. But, just for that moment, connection was made. In order for the compliment to be given and received, time had to be shared. Somehow, I think that may be the stimulus package we are needing. Technology is a wonderful thing. However, we have warned since its inception that technology is an alienating force. I realize we have all kinds of social possibilities because of it today including the very communicator we are connecting with at this moment. Human beings, however, need more. We need connection. We need human interaction. We need to give and receive compliments.


So, while they may not be free, compliments are an unlimited resource. They are readily available for distribution. Choose to make connection this week. It is as easy as passing on a compliment to a stranger who might just be the friend you have yet to meet. Take the time, on purpose. It will be worth it.