The Valiant History of Carrier Pigeons
Carrier pigeons, those dauntless winged messengers, have a long and valiant history. These remarkable birds, often injured by shellfire and sometimes dying after delivering crucial messages, have saved countless lives over the years. Cher Ami, a one-legged pigeon, is celebrated for saving the lives of two hundred soldiers during World War I’s Battle of the Argonne. Despite being shot through one wing, Cher Ami managed to carry a lifesaving message just in time to warn of an impending German attack.
Another heroic bird, Stumpy Joe, had such a battle-scarred career that fans eventually had him stuffed, mounted, and displayed in the National Air Force Museum in Dayton, Ohio. These brave birds are not limited to wartime; millions of pigeons have brought joy and excitement to racing-pigeon enthusiasts worldwide.
Introducing “Carrier Pigeon Kudos”
In the spirit of these courageous birds, I present a unique technique for complimenting others, called “Carrier Pigeon Kudos.” The idea behind this technique is simple but powerful: when you hear someone offering a genuine compliment or praise about another person, don’t let it end there. Instead, become the messenger of good feelings and deliver that compliment to the intended recipient.
You don’t need to roll up the compliment in a tiny capsule, attach it to your leg like Stumpy Joe, and take to the skies. Instead, all you have to do is remember the kind words and verbally transmit them to the person who will derive the most pleasure from them—the person who was complimented.
The Art of Verbal Transmission
To become a “Carrier Pigeon” of good feelings, start by keeping your ears open for positive things people say about each other. For example, if your colleague Carl shares something genuinely nice about another colleague, Sam, be the bridge between them. You can say something like, “You know, Sam, Carl mentioned the nicest thing about you the other day.”
Similarly, if your sister raves about your first cousin being an exceptional relative, take the initiative to give your cousin a call. It’s a simple act of kindness that can brighten someone’s day.
Even from Mom to Manny
Even when it comes to family, you can employ this technique. If your mother praises Manny for doing a fantastic job mowing the lawn, don’t just keep it to yourself. Pass on her compliment to Manny. It’s a small gesture that goes a long way, as we all appreciate a bit of recognition, even from our loved ones.
The Mutual Appreciation Society
Here’s where this technique benefits you as well. When you bring someone third-party kudos, they tend to appreciate you as much as the person who originally gave the compliment. It’s like being a bearer of glad tidings, and it’s a form of positive gossip that warms hearts and fosters connections. In essence, you become the go-to person for spreading good vibes and kind words.
Carry More Than Compliments: Deliver News and Knowledge
Becoming a “Carrier Pigeon” doesn’t end with compliments. Another way to brighten someone’s day and build stronger relationships is by sharing relevant news and knowledge. Whether it’s a newspaper clipping, an article, or an interesting fact, passing on information that might interest the recipient is a thoughtful act.
For instance, if your friend Ned is a furniture designer in North Carolina, and you stumble upon a significant article in the Los Angeles Times about furniture trends, why not fax it to him? Or, if your client Sally is a sculptor in Seattle, and you come across her work showcased in a New York home, drop her a quick note about it.
A Personal Clipping Service
Consider the story of my friend Dan, who lives in San Francisco. Whenever he comes across something in the paper related to communications, he clips it and sends it to me. There’s no need for elaborate notes; a simple “FYI—Regards, Dan” in the corner of the clipping suffices. In essence, he has become my private West Coast clipping service, keeping me informed and engaged.
Try It: A Simple Act of Thoughtfulness
Incorporate this technique into your interactions. Think about the money you’ll save on greeting cards. Sending a relevant clipping or a piece of information is a winner’s way of saying, “I’m thinking of you and your interests.” It’s a small act of thoughtfulness that can have a significant impact on your relationships and connections.
So, embrace the role of a “Carrier Pigeon” of good feelings and knowledge. Spread positivity, recognition, and valuable information to the people in your life. It’s a simple yet powerful way to enhance your connections and make a lasting impression.