The Perfect Compliment

Summary

The author learned the importance of seizing the moment to give a sincere compliment after initially hesitating to praise a woman's jeweled face mask, and later successfully complimenting another woman on her jeweled flag purse, which not only acknowledged her fashion sense but also her shopping savvy.

Abstract

The narrative describes an instance where the author witnessed an individual wearing a beautiful jeweled face mask but missed the opportunity to compliment her due to an awkward situation. Reflecting on this missed chance, the author decided to act on their impulse when they saw another person with a striking jeweled flag purse on Independence Day. The compliment was well-received, as the woman revealed the purse was from T.J. Maxx, to which the author responded with admiration for her shopping prowess as well as her taste. This interaction left the woman visibly proud and the author satisfied with having brightened someone's day with a simple, genuine compliment.

Opinions

The author values the impact of a well-timed and sincere compliment.
There is an acknowledgment that the setting and timing are crucial when offering a compliment.
The author believes that recognizing someone's unique choices can significantly enhance their day.
The author suggests that the ability to find great items while shopping is a skill worth complimenting.
The positive effect of the compliment is evident as the woman's reaction was one of pride and elevated confidence.

Take the time to brighten someone’s day

The other day, I saw someone with a gorgeous jeweled face mask. It was striking and lovely. I wanted to tell her so, but she had been buttonholed by someone haranguing her. She had that trapped-animal look in her eyes, and I didn’t want to hold up her potential escape.

I regretted not telling her. So when I saw someone on Independence Day with a fantastic jeweled flag purse, I had to tell her how perfect it was for the occasion.

She smiled, shrugged, and said, “T.J. Maxx.”

I answered, “It’s not knowing where to shop. It’s knowing what to buy.”

Her entire face lit up. I’d just complimented both her fashion sense and her bargain hunting skills.

She and her husband disappeared into the crowd. She was strutting, just a little bit.