This was originally posted on the Jewels of Jesus blog a couple of months ago. I'm posting it here now because I don't think I ever did and I thought you might enjoy it. :)
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I have a job at a small Subway restaurant near us. Once when I made the customer's sandwich and wrapped it, I charged him for it. He paid and I gave him his sandwich in a bag. He then took the bag, looked me in the eye and said, "Thank you, Bonnie. Have a great day!"
You know what? I felt so special!!!
He had obviously seen my name on my nametag. I have only ever heard one customer say my name to me before, and that was him. It completely made my day. He took the time to look at my nametag and then use my name to thank me.
It seems like such a small thing. But it wasn't! I glowed for the next hour!
Names are something everyone has. Sure, some people have the same name, but it is still them. I can't imagine myself with another name! Bonnie just wouldn't be Bonnie if I had a different name.
A person's name defines them. It is them, come to think of it! People feel special if you use their names. I certainly feel special when someone uses my name.
My sister has an unusual name. Her name is Danella. (Pronounced Dan-ella, it's pretty straightforward!) Most people pronounce it either Daniella, Danyella, Danielle or any of a hundred other derivatives.
Yet she feels so special when someone takes the time to learn how to pronounce her name and then proceeds to say it right. Especially someone she doesn't know very well. She told me that because it is pronounced wrong so much, it is doubly awesome when someone
makes an effort to say it right.
Here's a challenge today. Use names more often. (And in connection with complimentary terms, too, I might add!)
People feel special when you use their names. I don't know how many times I've said that in this post, but it's true and I want to get the point across!
Just a quick (and relevant) Bible verse too before I close.
Philippians 2: 9-11 NLT says (emphasis added):
Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor
and gave him the
name above all other names,
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.