Economic struggles have got just about everyone feeling down. But two sophomores at Purdue University are taking a simple yet effective step toward cheering up as many people as possible.
Perhaps taking a tip from TV's Eddie Haskel, Cameron Brown and Bret Westcott stand outside along a central footpath on the West Lafayette campus every Wednesday from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Bearing a sign that reads "Free Compliments," they shout out warm comments to everyone who passes by.
"Nice pants!"
"I love your curly hair!"
"I like that hoodie."
No matter the weather, the "Compliment Guys" are out there, hoping to brighten up people's days.
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"It's the highlight of my Wednesday," said student Emma Marr.
Westcott, a 19-year-old civil engineering student, came up with the idea in September. After doling out flattering observations on his own for a week, he asked Brown to join him.
The busy walkway sees a lot of foot traffic, but the two gentlemen do an excellent job of firing off compliments quickly.
"These guys are great. Everybody knows them," freshman Maureen Campion told the Chicago Tribune. "People talk about them all the time. It's like, 'Have you met the compliment guys?'"
Soon, millions of people will meet the compliment guys. Brown and Wescott are scheduled to appear on an upcoming Friday live broadcast of The Oprah Show.
"They are doing a great job of lifting people's spirits," said Kendra Crace.
Matt Bartosik, editor of Off the Rocks' next issue and "between blogs" blogger, thinks you've done a great job at reading this article.
