make your mark

My husband doesn’t like when I wear lipstick. Not only does he dislike the texture when he kisses me, but more often than not, it leaves a mark. I don’t blame him, he’s not the one who chose to wear lipstick (thankfully) and yet my choice leaves a mark on him.

Our choices leave marks on other people… consequences they would never choose for themselves. The look on your face that conveys contempt or disgust versus welcoming acceptance. The insult you type to a stranger online versus a kind question you ask to better understand them.

We have the ability to leave positive marks on the people around us. So we have to look intently, truly listen and act in ways that are honorable and kind no matter how we might feel in that moment. How I treat you is not a reflection of who you are, it’s a reflection of who I am. And who I am is a work in progress.

How you prioritize your day communicates to others what is important to you. How you respond with your words and actions communicates what you value and believe. Every choice leaves a mark on someone.

Make your mark. But make it a good one.