Encouragement

Proverbs 15:23 says, "A man has joy in an apt answer, and how delightful is a timely word."  All of us need encouragement--somebody to believe in us.  To reassure and reinforce us.  To help us pick up the pieces and go on.  To provide us with increased determination in spite of the odds.  When we encourage others we spur them on, we stimulate and affirm them.  It is helpful to remember the distinction between appreciation and affirmation.  We appreciate what a person DOES.  We affirm who a person IS.  Appreciation comes and goes because it's usually related to something someone accomplishes.  Affirmation goes deeper.  It is directed to the person himself or herself.  I don't care how influential or secure or mature a person may appear to be, genuine encouragement never fails to help.  Many of us need massive doses of it.