This video clip has been out for awhile, you may have seen it already. I'm posting it again for two reasons. First, I think the message is a good one worth repeating. But second, I discovered a very unexpected swirl of controversy about this message, and decided I'd like to explore it further and get your feedback.

The message of the video is Validation, and how we treat other people can have a profound impact on their lives.

The controversy comes from those who feel that we should not look for outside validation. That we should be happy within ourselves and not need someone else to stroke our ego in order to be happy.

My personal thoughts are: First, I do believe that ultimately happiness is an inside job. A person can decide if they want to be happy or be miserable. You can look for the silver lining in every cloud, or just sit under the black cloud and cry.  However, that having been said, there is a lot more to it than that. Maybe a person is depressed and they aren't able to lift themselves above that black cloud without help.  Also, we are not individual islands. Everyone is connected. We need other people. And while I do not think it's healthy for someone to have to depend on others for their self-esteem, we do all need an encouraging word from time to time, and we also thrive on genuine commendation (not empty flattery - that's something altogether different).

So, I like this video, and I appreciate it when a stranger smiles at me or says something nice. I try to do the same, and doing it also makes me feel good. I think that's a healthy human interchange. What do you think?

WATCH VALIDATION VIDEO CLIP

After you watch the clip, please leave me your comments below.

From my heart to yours,
Karen