As you go about your day, you may be around countless people who need to be uplifted. People’s body language says a lot. Family members may seem frustrated or overwhelmed. You may notice stress on the face of a corporate worker, a mother at a store at her wit’s end, a cashier mindlessly ringing up items. People seem disconnected. We can get so focused on what’s happening with us that we don’t think to look outward.

But what if we make eye contact with a panhandler standing on the corner and smile a genuine smile? What if we authentically ask a cashier how his or her day is going? What if we acknowledge a fellow shopper at a store by making a cheerful comment? 

For example, sometimes I’ll notice someone staring at products on a shelf and mention, “There are too many choices, huh?” I’ll tell a mom I remember when my kids were that age. I’ll tell a teenager that their shoes are really cute and that I would probably break an ankle if I wore a heel that high. I’ve even told a customer service representative that his eyes are absolutely beautiful. I tell veterans, police officers, and first responders how much I appreciate them.

Genuine interest in and compassion for others speaks volumes. And while we may not be overtly “telling our testimony,” the fact that we interact with deep-rooted joy from within also tells our testimony. We may never know the impact our interactions have. But time and effort spent validating someone is always worth it. As mentioned in Matthew 5, you are the light of the world; let your light shine before others. So be a light for someone today in a world that is dark and empty. You are needed.