March 30, 2026

“People who add value to others do so intentionally. I say that because to add value, we must give of ourselves, and that rarely occurs by accident.” - John C. Maxwell

Online, we use an acronym IRL. It stands for “in real life” and refers not to our online people, but those with whom we intimately do real life.

Unfortunately, most of us have gotten so busy, with our heads down over our screens, that we forget to look up and see the people right in our midst. We’re so connected online that we’re disconnected in real life.

A few years back, it was placed on my heart to: Look Up. Notice. Act.

As I pondered these words, I was inspired to become more intentional about truly being alive in every moment. To look up and notice my surroundings, not just the scenery, but also the people. To truly notice them: their eyes; their need; their stories.

We were designed for more than being busy.

Each day, it’s up to us to notice whose life we’re being nudged to be part of. Will we play a significant role, or a role that reflects a consumed heart and schedule?

In The Art of Racing in the Rain, Garth Stein warns us, “Your car goes where your eyes go.” That’s our guidance today: Responsibility is the right use of our eyes. Together, let’s be intentional about designing margins in our lives to ensure we can Look Up. Notice. Act.

Keeping our eyes lifted removes distractions of the world that seem so important to us at the time, and shapes our focus toward what matters most, knowing that when we do, we have the opportunity to add value to the lives of those around us.

Lifting our eyes, lifting our heads, and lifting our hands to serve others and service is what this life is all about. Stay committed to being somebody who makes everybody feel like a somebody.

Be a value-carrier, on purpose!

Intentionally Own It! What growth does this message inspire me to embrace, and why does it matter? When I embrace it, who am I becoming, and what value does this add to my life and to others?