Sweet Notes of Encouragement

I often wonder if I am making a difference. I write, I teach, and give some small portion of my time to try and uplift others, and offer whatever abilities and talents I might have to share goodness and light. I do not do it for praise, or some other purposes. I make no money from my blog, teaching, or speaking, and I actually have to pay to keep my .com going. I share my thoughts, my feelings, and my experiences, because I feel compelled to do it.

Something drives me to do it. A force beyond my own.

If I can make a difference in the life of just one person, then my efforts -- whatever they may be -- are worth it to me. Because one person is never just one person. That one person could change the world! I write, teach, etc., for the one. 

I receive much of my validation from my Heavenly Father. I have always had a special connection with Him. I have some thoughts that enter my mind, of course, that are not pleasant, and I can get very discouraged at times -- but there is a more powerful voice that conquers all doubt and fear, and that is the voice of God. I try to hear His voice, and when I listen to Him, I am filled with hope and confidence -- a confidence that defies my natural tendency to weakness, worry, and fear.

Though I find contentment and confidence from that validation from my Heavenly Father, it is always nice to hear it from others, too. I would carry on with what I am doing if I never had any feedback. If I were writing for myself alone, or speaking to an empty classroom, I would still do it. Because I love it. And it makes me happy. And it is what God wants me to do.

However, the other day, I received a note from a teenager at church that really touched my heart, and made all my efforts well worth it. It was a precious note, and a well-timed boost for my spirit. (READ NOTE ABOVE.)

This same boy has asked me to participate in a Future Leaders event at the high school. From what I understand, I will be part of a panel of selected people, and the youth can ask questions, and have an unscripted discussion about pretty much anything. He said he heard the word "courage" as one of the topics, and thought of me. How sweet is that? I am super excited about the event. It should be really fun. I love the youth!

I do have stacks of notes, letters, cards, comments, and gifts -- people have been so sweet to me, and my family. I am so grateful for all of the encouragement showered upon us, it means the world to me.

To "encourage" means: to inspire with courage, spirit, or hope.

I think I found a new favorite word.