A little sincere encouragement can go a long way in changing someone's day, and in the right situation, it can change the course of someone's life! ...I cannot speak for everyone, but I tend to be very aware of my flaws and shortcomings, the areas where I have failed or where I continue to get it wrong. It's easy to believe that God generally loves the world, but sometimes harder to believe that He loves you individually and specifically. Our enemy does his best to keep us from seeing our progress, understanding our purpose, and celebrating the times God has used us to make a positive difference in the lives of others. And that's why God tells us to "encourage one another and build each other up." (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
It matters. The power of life and death is in the tongue, and it's important to speak words of life that strengthen those we love!
Two years ago, Chet Lee took the time to write out some words of affirmation for each of the friends at his birthday party... I still have that sheet of paper, and I have a picture of it that's always in my phone! :)
And this year, I received seven thoughtful, handwritten birthday cards, and then there were the awesomesauce spoken words of affirmation at my party Friday night:
Laura said that I am someone who always seeks out the truth, that I am tenacious in building and maintaining deep friendships when shutting down might have been easier, and that I am good about celebrating the little things in my friends' lives. Chet talked about the spiritual growth he has seen in me over the years, and he said I didn't deserve what happened in past friendships and he's glad that I really believe that now. Jeff said he always feels at home and enjoys the gatherings at my house - that I'm good at hospitality, and that he loves looking through the blog books and old scrapbooks and he appreciates that I also enjoy reminiscing and "treat the past with respect." Kelly said I'm a friend who is all in and not halfhearted, and that I'm very willing to share and be transparent in my writing and in our Lifegroup. Kyle was trying to think of something no one else had said so he mentioned my fear of bugs, which was hilarious. He also said I'm very creative and artistic. Steve said he is thankful that I treat him just like anyone else there even though we haven't known each other very long. Sarah talked about the scavenger hunt story and said that she appreciated me speaking truth into her life even when she didn't want to hear it. Tiffany said I've been a very caring friend who is not just all talk but really shows up for people when they need me. Angela talked about meeting me at Lifegroup four years ago and that she felt like I just exuded kindness. Karli said that I'm very insightful and that I understand people and personalities and relationships well. Jenna said I've been a great roommate and that my love for my family and friends is very evident.Just listening to that was SO GREAT! I love that each person actually said something different - I probably wouldn't have thought that possible beforehand. It was deeply meaningful, and I won't forget it, (especially now that I've written some of it down). ;-)
I am a natural encourager and have written many a blog "Tribute." But I'm going to make an effort to step up my game there and be more intentional about offering personal encouragement, both written and verbal! It's often a very small thing to us -- a text or quick note or a few words in a phone call -- but it can make a significant, lasting impact on the recipient.
In other news, the birthday celebrations continue at home this weekend, and I'm pretty psyched about having President's Day off tomorrow! =)
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