An invitation – whether it be to a party, or a new job, or even a chance to voice your opinion – means so much more when it is stated that “we want you.” Not a “Feel free to join us,” or “stop by if you can.” It’s a subtle difference but changes the whole meaning. When someone genuinely wants your opinion, your presence, your gifts, it is so nice to hear that explicit invitation.
How can you make your invitations to others more meaningful today?
I love when I get automatic invitations sent to my computer’s calendar. I am given the options of “accept,” “decline,” and “maybe.” In am invited to ponder that response and give the one that is most appropriate.
What are you accepting, declining, and saying “maybe” to today?
Invitations can be surprises of kindness, caring, and compassion. An unexpected gift of invitation can lift someone’s entire day.
Surprise someone with an act of kindness today.
Sometimes, an invitation to someone else to explain something really invites them to do emotional labor for you. Too often, that emotional labor is given without acknowledgement or compensation.
Whose emotional labor are you relying upon today? How can you repay them for that investment in you?
It is a powerful thing to invite someone else to join you in community, in relationship. It is a powerful thing to be invited to join others.
Reflect on your experiences of being asked to be a part of something. What did it feel like to be included?
