This Magic Monday, we talk about acknowledging genuine goodwill towards others through simple words and actions.
Did you know, not only does each country have their way of verbalizing a sneeze (like “achoo,” in English), but there are also numerous responses upon hearing one?
Some countries like France, Russia and Spain have several responses depending on the number of times one sneezes or on whom one is addressing. It’s fascinating to see the variety of ways each culture responds to something as simple as a sneeze (see if you can find “go away kitten” in this extensive list).
Something striking about the majority of these responses is the genuine goodwill wished toward the other person, their loved ones, and their lives in general verbalized in each customary response. Sometimes the little things we often do out of habit get taken for granted.
Notice how rewarding it is to take a moment to reflect on the ‘why’ behind something as simple as acknowledging another human’s well-being.
Whatever the climate –whether good or challenging– It’s how we respond towards the well-being of the others that makes us who we are.
So, take a moment to say thank you to everyone who keeps your business running, or your family functioning, or simply, someone who you can see needs a kind word.
Gesundheit – “good health” to you!