--- title: The “Tell Them” Theory created: 2026-03-11 modified: 2026-06-10 authors: Vex King category: Essay --- I’m convinced a **Tell Them Theory** would make the world a better place. Think the waiter was friendly? **Tell them.** Your friend looked good today? **Tell them.** Someone’s work inspired you? **Tell them.** The world is loud with criticism and quiet with appreciation. Be the exception. It could make someone’s day. --- Unlike many things in life, appreciation has an **expiry date**. **The best time to offer appreciation is now**. And I don’t mean the generic kind. Not “you’re amazing” or “I appreciate you.” I mean the specific kind. Tell them: * “Your presence calms me when everything feels chaotic.” * “You make people feel safe to be themselves.” * “The way you handled that situation taught me something valuable.” * “Your consistency inspires me. You show up even when it’s inconvenient, and that says a lot about your character and heart.”