Hello, smart young people!
What’s the first thought that comes to your mind when I say, “magic words”? Well, let me guess! I’m sure most of you are imagining magic spells from the world of Harry Potter. Some of you are probably wondering if it’s poetry because poetry does tend to weave magic with words. Maybe those of you who love music are wondering if I’m referring to the words of a beautiful song. For those of you who like to paint, I know that magic lies in the paintbrush, while for the dancers, magic is in the steps of dance. The ones inclined to sports are probably guessing that the magic words are, “Ready, steady, go!”
But I’m sorry to disappoint all of you.
In this context, by ‘magic words,’ I mean the words—Sorry, Thank you, Welcome, Please, and Excuse me. I’m sure these words need no introduction as all of you are familiar with these words. But today I want you to ask yourself if you actually use these words in your day-to-day interactions and even if you do, whether these words are only limited to your teachers, friends, siblings, parents, grandparents, and relatives. I want you to reflect on the following:
What about saying “Thank you” to the helper who comes to your place every day? Or asking her politely when you need something… “Didi, please give me a glass of water,” rather than ordering her about by saying, “Give me water!”
How about saying “Thank you” to your driver at home or your school bus driver and conductor who pick and drop you from home and school every day? Or what about saying, “Sorry” to them when you are late?
What about saying "Thank you" to the dadas and baideos in school who clean your classrooms and corridors?
How about saying “Excuse me” to people while making your way out of public transport rather than pushing and jostling?
What about saying “Welcome” to a new student in your class to break the ice and make him/her feel at home?
How about saying "Excuse me" to draw the attention of the waiter/waitress when you go to eat at a restaurant? Or how about saying "Please" to him/her while placing your order and then saying "Thank you" when he/she serves you food?
What about saying "Thank you" to people who deliver food at your place?
How about saying "Thank you" to the person who comes to collect garbage from your house every day?
What about saying "Thank you" to the gardener in school or at home for growing such beautiful flowers?
What about using these magic words for everyone?
It’s time to ponder upon this and make some small changes in your everyday interactions. Trust me, using these magic words will work wonders. People will be happy to interact with you and they will try their best to help you if you ever need their help. Above all, you’ll feel so much better after using these small, yet significant words. You’ll see how smiles will light up on people’s faces when you use these magic words. And that will bring joy to you as well!
So, go ahead and get ready to see some magic after using these words!
What are you waiting for? 🙂
