At a recent drinks party, one of my husband’s friends, who’d clearly had a toot-too-many, sidled up to me and sheepishly confessed, “I love reading your posts.”
“Thank you so much!” I said, genuinely touched (because let’s be honest, we all appreciate a little encouragement). “But,” I added with a laugh, “why don’t you ever like, share, or comment? I didn’t even know you followed The Shine Blog.”
He looked utterly horrified, as if I’d suggested something scandalous.
“Don’t be silly!” he exclaimed. “A guy could NEVER like or comment on your writing! It would ruin my masculinity to engage with it publicly.”
I laughed out loud. Oh, how I love it when the truth spills out after a drink or two!
But his confession got me thinking. Not all support is loud. Sometimes, it’s quiet, subtle, even invisible—but it’s no less meaningful.
It’s the friend who reads your posts, never comments but celebrates your joy nonetheless. The family member who shows up without being asked. The colleague who makes sure your hard work is noticed. The teacher who spends extra time helping you understand. The friend who doesn’t laugh when others tease you—or defends you when you’re not around.
“Not all support is loud, but even the quietest encouragement can light the way for someone else to shine.”
So, who are the silent supporters in your life? The ones who celebrate your wins quietly, steady you in tough times, or brighten your world in small but meaningful ways? Take a moment to notice them—and let them know how much they mean to you. It could mean the world to them.
Whether support comes as a shout or a whisper, it makes a difference. And if my posts help you SHINE just a little brighter, then it’s all worth it… even if it’s just between you, me, and a toot-or-three!
