A moment of encouragement can change a life --- forever.
Think back just for a minute. Think back to someone who expressed confidence that you could achieve something. Think back to a moment when someone offered a healthy, sacred hug of encouragement. Think back to the time someone said: "You have some amazing skill." Think back to the mentor who declared: "You have all the makings of a great leader."
Remember?
Of course you do, because those moments have extraordinary power to change lives.
Encouragement - "to give courage" - "to strengthen a heart".
Over five decades ago a teacher in my fifth grade class offered me a word of encouragement and a hug. In the midst of a stressful domestic life, that moment shines brightly for me. It was an oasis in a desert, a shelter from the storm.
Many decades later, I saw my teacher in a restaurant. I walked up to her and thanked her for her encouragement and kindness. It took her a while to recognize me (!) but she remembered the name. She is gone now, but the memory of her encouragement remains in my mind to this day.
I think of another time, another teacher. I was beginning my Bachelor's Degree studies and I doubted my ability to write. I recall (and still have!) a note of encouragement stating "You've underestimated your skill in writing." It was just the thing I needed to get me past my insecurity.
Anyone can encourage others.
If you are a teacher, a leader, a parent, a friend, a co-worker, a volunteer, a youth worker or anyone with a good and healthy relationship with another person you can encourage others to face difficulties, to move forward and to 'take heart'.
A sincere moment of encouragement can change a life forever. You may not know it at the time, but it is likely your words or subtle actions will help a person 'take heart' --- gain courage to move forward or simply fire up hope that things can be better and different in the future.
Encouraging others costs us nothing except a deep desire to see others succeed.