Byron's Babbles

I have been researching and writing all week at Wheaton College at the Marion E. Wade Center in Wheaton, Illinois. I’ve been staying in Naperville, Illinois at the Hotel Indigo Naperville, which is the inspiration for this post. This hotel truly understands the customer experience. From checkin to the comping of meals and drinks to preferred parking this place has treated me better than I deserve. This hotel deserves ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️s!

This morning when I walked into Indigo’s Plank Bar & Kitchen the servers who had taken care of me all week already had coffee and tomato juice waiting on me. I asked what they would have done if I had switched to orange juice. They said they would have cried. This is just one example of the customer experience being provided here. It might seem trivial that I am excited about tomato juice and being acknowledge by name (if you recall there was a guy named Norm who thought that was cool), but these are so important to belonging. As a founder of a professional service firm, I understand that the customer experience is no trivial matter.

I was then asked if there would be anyone joining me, or just me like other mornings. I said just me and my server smiled and said, “You’re enough.” With a funny look on my face, I said, “Many would agree with you.” She said, “No. No. I meant that as a positive compliment.” Of course, I had to think about that phrase, which I guess could be taken negatively, but think about being told “You’re enough.” That’s pretty amazing. I found myself reflecting on all the great people in my life who are “enough.”

I get that the phrase “You’re enough” can be interpreted in several meaningful ways. Each of those ways is very personal and carries its own depth and resonance. Here are a few thoughts that come to mind:

1. Self-Acceptance: It serves as a reminder that we don’t need to change who we are to be worthy. Embracing our true self—flaws and all—can foster a sense of confidence and contentment.
2. Reassurance: In moments of doubt or insecurity, hearing “You’re enough” can be comforting. It reassures us that we are sufficient for the challenges we face and that our efforts have value. We need to remember to give others this same reassurance. Maybe we need to say “You’re enough” more often.
3. Limiting Comparisons: This phrase encourages us to stop comparing ourselves to others. Recognizing that everyone has their unique strengths and weaknesses can help alleviate feelings of inadequacy.
4. Encouragement for Growth: It suggests that while striving for improvement is valuable, it’s important to acknowledge our current self as worthy. We can pursue growth without feeling that we must first become “more” to be deserving of love and respect. We particularly need to help our young people understand this.
5. Emotional Support: This phrase can also come from a place of empathy and support, reminding us that we are valued by others regardless of our accomplishments or failures.
6. Mindfulness: It encourages a focus on the present moment. Accepting ourselves as enough can lead to a more mindful approach to life, promoting a sense of peace and gratitude.
7. Foundation for Relationships: Recognizing that we are enough can enhance our relationships by allowing us to connect authentically with others, rather than seeking validation through them.

Each interpretation carries profound implications for personal growth and emotional well-being. Did any of these resonate with you? Remember: you’re enough!