Last week was about chili and being inclusive.  This week is about chili and warmth.

I love the taste of chili.  It’s the blend of spices with the meat and the beans, the crackers crumpled up just right, and some shredded cheese on top melting into deliciousness.  I love the taste of chili, but if I’m being honest, I can think of several other foods that have a better flavor profile than chili.  It’s not just the taste of chili, but the warmth of chili that makes it so good.  There is something about being cold, bundled up in a hoodie, and eating a hot bowl of chili.  There is something about feeling the warmth fill your stomach and then spread through the rest of your body.  All of a sudden you feel comfy and cozy and settled.  Do you ever feel that way after chili or is it just me?

What does this have to do with anything?  Chili is more than just a flavor.  It’s also the warmth that comes with it.  In a similar way, interactions with people are more than just the flavor, but also the warmth that comes with those words and actions.  Think about the people who have made you feel all warm, comfy, and cozy.  Do you remember the specific words they said, or do you remember the warmth they provided? 

People are busy and stressed.  People are overworked and exhausted.  People are trying to find that reservoir of energy to push through until the end of the year.  Things are a little cold right now.  People are feeling a little cold.  I think we all could use a little more warmth.  A hug.  A smile.  A high five.  A sincere thank you.  A simple note of appreciation.  While these small acts may not solve all problems, they will bring a little extra warmth into a cold world and that has to be worth something.

The challenge: How will you bring some extra warmth into your interactions today?

Have a jolly good day,

Andrew Embry