Sometimes there are memories that just stick out. Memories with super sharp clarity, moments that define who you are, and who you become. I want to share one of those moments in my life today.

I was about 7 years old. My dad and mom were driving us somewhere, and my dad noticed a new dollar general had been put in. He said something about how they are popping up everywhere. I quipped up from the back seat my opinion. “Dad!” I said, “They are so successful because they are selling a lot of things for really cheap! Other stores sell a little bit of things for more expensive!”

“That’s right Jeanette! You’ve got a great business mind. You’re so smart!”

Those words shifted my entire life. Now twenty years later, I run more on a “higher quality product, less customers, higher price.” business model, but the idea that my daddy thinks I’ve got a good business mind. That stuck with me. I’m a business owner now! That literally changed my life.

I was seven. They were flippant words of encouragement from a father who just wanted to build up his daughter, but changed the course of her life.

What you say to people shapes how they think about themselves.

Ephesians 4:29 says : “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

Consider your words. Find something that is great about a person, and tell it to them. You could shape their future with your kindness.