In a land not so long ago, antiques were all the rage. Nowadays, not so much. Modern is the theme in motion. But, I’m old enough to remember Antique Roadshow (is that even still on anymore? … and Google says: Yes!) and in small towns throughout the country, quite a few antique shops would line Main Street, USA.
My mom was a pseudo antiquer, dragging my dad to Amish country and other corners of the countryside perusing antique shops and hoping for that epic find that would grace our home for years to come.
One particular trip, when I was just knee-high to a grasshopper (my dad’s favorite saying), my parents came home from one of these antiquing trips and my mom had something great to show my sister and me. Upon unwrapping this treasure, we found a red dinner plate with white letters painted around the outside rim. I was old enough to read, but the rounded sentence gave me pause. I sounded it out. The words spelled out: “You Are Special Today.” Alongside the red plate was a special marker, made specifically to write on the bottom of this work of art.
“What is it, Mom?” I asked with great curiosity.
“It’s a special plate that when we celebrate something you or your sister did, I’ll make your favorite meal and serve it on this special plate. Then we’ll write on the bottom what your accomplishment was, and we’ll set it back in the hutch for the next time.” she replied.
I. Couldn’t. Wait.
Ideas flooded through my mind as to how I could earn the special plate and thus, my favorite meal. I likely became the most angelic son for the next several days; helping, not complaining, being agreeable, not talking back, not whining…hoping that my next meal would be served on the special plate.
And then…it happened. One Saturday evening, the plate appeared. The smell of my favorite meal filled the air. I grinned from ear to ear as dinner was served, and the red plate appeared before me. My mom also smiled, knowing that, in her eyes, I was her special son.
~~~
If my mom were around to ask, my guess is that she’d say she wished she had bought 2 red plates, and served every meal to my sister and I on them. She was a great mom that loved her kids to the fullest. She made us feel special every day, regardless of whether dinner was served on that plate or not.
A few weeks ago, my dad was going through old boxes and ran across that plate. On the back of the plate, a few celebrations were recorded with that special marker. A few of my birthdays, the time I got good grades (ok, ok…that was only on there once…I never said I was the smartest kid in school), the day I passed my driver’s license test. Fun memories for sure.
What is it about being celebrated, being honored, or recognized that we humans crave so much? Words of affirmation or recognition of our hard work always make us feel so good inside. And, when those words or affirmations are lacking, we begin to feel unnoticed and unappreciated.
So, what then shall we do?
When words or accolades are missing, shall we sulk in the mire of self-pity and despair? May it never be!
We must simply reflect on those who love us. Our parents, our spouse, our kids, our teammates. And while for you, maybe words and affirmations are few and far between, know that you are loved. By them, and by others. You matter. You are significant. Your existence is unique and extraordinary. With you, humanity survives, even thrives. Without you, the mosaic of life is incomplete.
Know that if I could, I’d serve you your favorite meal on that special red plate. Know that I believe in you. Know that your friends and family love and admire you. While words of affirmation may not come as frequently as you may like, may you know in your heart that you were made on purpose, for a purpose. Get up and get after it.
You Are Special Today.
