I have pondered this so many times this past week. Am I an encourager?
We meet people all the time that cross our paths, and some are a permanent part of our daily life. Just as our lives change, so do the lives of others. I have noted that there are people that make us feel so loved and valued and then others make us wish we had never been around them. The difference I have determined is their ability to value and encourage by simple little gestures.
Have you noticed that when someone comments on an outfit or new haircut, we immediately perk up? Or when someone belittles another, we wilt away. Developing habits of being an encourager is a practice, but one well worth pursuing. Kind thoughts aren’t meant to be only harbored in our minds, but to be shared. Now I am not talking about flattery that has no substance, but true caring and commenting. It takes effort to really notice and compliment one another. We are always moving at a fast pace, and slowing down enough to do just that requires real concentration.
I love being around happy people—people who make my day brighter. Inevitably, we all have to deal with challenges and problems, so it’s always refreshing to see a friend who chooses to look for the silver lining. As situations and seasons come and go, cling tightly to those kind of friends.
Don’t ever underestimate the power of the spoken word. Words laced with encouragement and positive recognition are life-changing. There is power in speaking them and receiving them. And when we do, notice how our self-worth feels just a little richer. I am challenging myself today to be an encourager—to surround myself with people who bring out the best in me, and in turn, bring out the best in someone else. Are you surrounded by people that make your life better?
One day here at the office, one of our precious girls left beautiful yellow roses on my desk without a note. I finally found out the giver, and I asked why no name. She responded with the neatest comment. “I just wanted to brighten your day!” Wow, that is powerful. She didn’t want any recognition—just to brighten my day. And she certainly did!
Today and every day, I am going to notice more carefully, share kind thoughts often, and hopefully, “just brighten someone’s day!”