so continuing my self-proclaimed "encouragement week" on the blog here (basically had to continue it after seeing this awesome picture above!), when was the last time you told somebody you appreciate them or how much they meant to you? people say sticks and stones, but not words, hurt, but that's not really true at all. words can hurt, and hurt deep. they can also have the exact opposite effect as well!
personal anecdote: my dad and granddad have both told me before that they are proud of me. not just that, but they went on to explain why they were proud of me. i know without a shadow of a doubt that they love me, cause not only do they tell me but they show it in their actions. to hear why they are proud of me, is something thats difficult to convey in actions and something i appreciated hearing more than they will ever know.
when was the last time you told someone you were proud of them, or even that you loved them. is there someone you know that needs to know you care? maybe a disciplinarian of a parent that has softened with time, but maintains their gruff exterior? how about the young lady at church who's husband left her and their kids last month? the daughter who struggles with image and body issues, the boy that isn't sure if he measures up to his dad's expectations of a son? there are people everywhere that need to hear that they are loved and cared for, find one today if you can! remember though that words without actions are empty, so be true in your expression of love, care or concern, and be prepared to back those words up with follow-throughs.