5 Simple Daily Rituals That Remind Us — and Those Around Us — That We Matter (and the Journey That Taught Me Why)
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
By John R. Miles
Feeling like we matter isn’t just a childhood need — it’s a lifelong one.
When I was five years old, a carefree game of tag ended in a shattering accident that left me with a traumatic brain injury, years of wearing an eye patch, and a severe speech impediment. As a result, I often felt odd, defective, and—worst of all—invisible. Every school day, while my classmates stayed in their English lessons, I walked alone across a field to meet with a speech therapist.
Over time, something remarkable happened. That therapist didn’t just teach me how to speak more clearly — she taught me that my voice mattered. She treated me as capable before I believed it myself, and her kindness became the scaffolding on which I rebuilt my confidence.
That early encounter with compassion planted the seed for my debut children’s book, YOU MATTER, LUMA (on sale February 24, 2026) — a heartwarming story that extends my larger mission: to create a ripple effect of mattering across generations. I want to remind people of all ages that kindness isn’t a small thing — it’s a force.
Those early struggles — and the grace I received from one person who chose to see me — became the foundation for everything I’ve gone on to do. They shaped my life’s mission: to help others discover that no matter their struggles or differences, they are never invisible. They matter.
In our busy, distracted world, it’s easy to forget that belonging begins with small, intentional actions — simple moments that tell us, and those around us, that we’re seen and valued. Here are five quick rituals that fit into any schedule — gentle reminders that who we are already makes a difference.
1. Begin with Gratitude, End with Reflection
Each morning, think of one person who makes your life brighter. Each night, text or tell them. Recognition doesn’t just strengthen connection — it affirms our shared humanity.
2. Eye Contact Over Screens
When someone talks to you, put the phone down. Offer your full attention. In a world of constant distraction, eye contact has become one of the rarest — and most powerful — forms of affirmation.
3. The Ripple Check-In
Ask yourself: Who did I make feel seen today?
It’s a simple question that transforms mattering from an idea into a practice — one small ripple at a time.
4. Say “Thank You” Like You Mean It
Go beyond the words. Add the why.
“Thank you for noticing that detail — it really helped.”
Specific gratitude turns routine interactions into moments of genuine connection.
5. End the Day with a “You Matter” Moment
Before bed, jot down three moments when you mattered
today — or whisper to your child, “I love who you are.” End the day reminding yourself, and those you love, that worth is not earned; it’s inherent.
Every act of kindness, every moment of presence, every sincere word of thanks becomes part of the quiet ripple of mattering. The truth is, we all have the power to make someone feel seen — including ourselves. And when we do, we remind the world of something simple and extraordinary: we all matter.
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