Those positively positive Post-its: Inspire, uplift, praise

Messages of positivity have the power to change the direction of thoughts, attitudes and actions. An unexpected brief note, penned with your own hand, can spark inspiration into the life of a soul. Meaningful notes do not have to be novellas. Short, sweet and to the point will be just fine.

In 1968, scientist Dr. Spencer Silver was tasked with developing new, stronger adhesives for the 3M company. The sticky “microspheres” he invented were neither strong nor permanent. The reusable adhesive was indeed unique, but those within were doubtful it would be a viable product.

Fast forward to 1974, when colleague Art Fry was singing in his church choir. He was frustrated because scrap-paper bookmarks kept falling out of his hymnbook. He needed something that would stick to the page but not ruin it.

Thinking back to a presentation he heard Silver give about his microsphere adhesives gave him an idea. Specifically, Silver’s “not so sticky” adhesive came to mind. I bet he shouted, “Hallelujah!”

A godsend indeed — six years and several prototypes later, on April 6, 1980, the iconic Post-it Note was born and it now yields nearly $1 billion in annual revenue. Silver and Fry were inducted into the National Invention Hall of Fame. Well done!

The ingenious paper, originally in canary yellow, can be used for practical purposes. A resourceful tool, it can be used for teaching reading, writing and arithmetic. It comes in handy for various art projects, necessary doodling, visual reminders of chores.

I never make a honey-do list. If you don’t believe me, just ask my husband. He is an honest man and will always tell the truth. But occasionally I will write a friendly to-do on a “sticky” and post it in plain sight for his eyes to see. Everyone needs a nudge now and then.

Although seemingly insignificant, a small square of paper is also useful for psychological purposes. Joyful words have the potential to make a heart happy. Communicating words of gratitude penned to my beloved for his hard work is always appreciated.

When my children were of public instruction age, those so-called lazy days of summer went by way too fast and during those months, the “S” word was not allowed to be a part of our vocabulary. I promise not to include that word in this writing.

So, where is one guaranteed a memorable time? The “S”-supply emporium of my choice the night before the big yellow wagon arrives. A few items on the list included, but were not limited to, socks, shoes, jeans and pencils, paper, lunch boxes and of course, “sticky notes.”

The “S” years for my children included challenges and setbacks and they needed plenty of love and affirmation. Trying to put myself in their shoes helped me encourage them. Personalized, handwritten, favorable messages have great potential. The vibrant colors of the Post-it Note available for purchase add pizzazz to a sometimes gloomy da

Including a Bible verse or a brief prayer to remind them that they are loved by the Sovereign God of the universe has eternal value. My children know I pray for them specifically, fervently and expectantly and that they are always on my mind.

Boosting a child’s self-esteem is vitally important and necessary. One way to communicate love is with a brief note of positive words.

“Thank you for being you!” “Praying for you today!” “Celebrating your victory!” “You are so loved!” “Good luck today!” “You are always on my mind and in my heart!” “I love you!” “You are beautiful!” “Great job!” “Blessings and hugs to you!” “Jesus loves you, this I know, for the Bible tells me so!” “Have a SONshine day!" "XOXO!”

Include the note in a lunch box. Tuck it inside a book or backpack. A purse, wallet, or pocket are good places, too.

In a few weeks, you may be the lucky one who gets to shop for school (oops, I said the “S” word) supplies. Wait until the night before so it will be memorable. Please include several packs of Post-it Notes as your hard-earned dollars will be well spent for sure.

Happy writing. Stay positive. Enjoy the rest of the summer.

Sweet blessings to you!