“Humans are lonely, and they want to be seen and known.”–Seth Godin

I heard a powerful story last summer from a man who grew up without his parents. They were there, but they were strung out on drugs, so he was ignored.

He’s a dad now, and he tells his son everyday, “I see you.”

He’s committed to never let his son experience the tortured loneliness of disregard.

Disregard is worse than hate. If someone feels ignored, sometimes they will act out in very damaging ways. Because negative attention feels better than invisibility to someone who is attention starved.

Look at their faces. Hear their voices. Tell them they are seen and heard and deeply cherished.

Not a parent? Who are the invisibles at the edges of your life? Look them in the eye. And smile.