Cincinnati Museum Center
When our daughter Heather and her family from Washington State come to visit us here (including her two brothers and their families), we take the two granddaughters to the Cincinnati Museum Center.
This last time, Sophie (age eight) particularly enjoyed the simulated rock quarry, where children can learn about simple machines. Tools like shovels and wheelbarrows are part of the equipment provided. (That was three year-old Elena’s speed.)
NOT Elena, but another little quarry worker
Some of the equipment is more complicated, including, a rope-and-pulley scoop for picking up foam rocks then lifting them off the ground, and a crane to move the scoop over to a dump truck.
By trial-and-error Sophie figured out how to adjust the ropes for maneuvering the scoop into the pile of rocks, then tilt it upright. A tall, brawny, football-player-in-the making came along to join in the play. He was probably about ten years old. I watched to see if he would use his size to take over the operation.
Instead, he and Sophie began to work together. He would pile foam rocks for her to scoop, then jump up to the heavy crane that would transfer the scoop over to the truck. He never bossed, but spoke respectfully. They had a grand time experimenting and problem-solving.
Or you can play Frustrate-Your-Sister!
Once or twice the boy spoke to his mom. She was very busy keeping track of a younger son and toddler daughter who liked to go in opposite directions. My thoughts returned to the exhausting days when our three children were young.
On our way out of the quarry-area, Heather, the girls, and I passed by that busy mom.
“Your son is a fine gentleman,” I said, then shared with her my observations.
A beautiful smile transformed her face. “Oh, thank you!” she enthused. “You never know if they’ll remember their manners.”
“Well, he sure is minding them this morning. You’re doing a great job!” And with a light squeeze on the young mother’s arm, I hurried to catch up with my girls.
That’s when I noticed the atmosphere had changed; the air seemed purer. Those positive words meant to bless a busy mom had blessed me too, and an afterglow of refreshing joy filled my heart–just for trying to make someone else’s day a bit brighter.
Those wise words of Solomon proved true again:
Of course, more important is the affirmation-afterglow in the life of that young mother. My prayer is our little conversation provided her with encouragement and confidence to press on in her conscientious child-rearing.
I’m very hopeful of a such a result, based on my own experience at that stage of life. At least a couple of times when our children were small, a stranger stopped at our table in a restaurant and commended them for their calm behavior.
Now, more than thirty years later, I still remember those spirit-lifting, confidence-building comments. (Although I must confess: at home they were anything but calm!)
I, for one, want to grow as an encourager—to strengthen the hearts of others as they face life’s challenges. Maybe you do too.
Just how might we achieve that goal? Possibilities include:
- Share positive words based on our observations—even with strangers like that mom at the museum, or with diners at a restaurant.
- Be specific and give examples about the positive traits we see. Folks are often blind to their own commendable behaviors.
- Express appreciation for anything and everything. (We’ve mentioned this behavior before, but I need the reminder.) We can also increase the power of a thank-you by adding a smile, eye contact, and maybe even a touch on the arm if appropriate.
- Show interest in the thoughts and activities of others. Validation is even more powerful than praise.
- Encourage the encouragers! We can tell others how their words have blessed us, to keep determination and confidence flowing among us.
Encouragement is indeed a powerful force, fostering perseverance, strength, and hope.
Best of all, it brings glory to God as we affirm his character in those around us.
* * * * * * * * * *
Thank you, Father, for the privilege of ministering encouragement, for the delight you engineer in the heart of the one who receives and the one who gives. May I breathe strength, hope, and confidence into others wherever I go.
Art & photo credits: www.commonswikimedia.org; http://www.visitflyovercountry.com; http://www.inventorsoftomorrow.com; http://www.stocksnap.io; http://www.wallpaperflare.com; http://www.pxfuel.com; http://www.quotefancy.com.
(Revised and reblogged from August 1, 2016 while we enjoy family house-guests.)
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This is such an excellent post! We never know how much our words will mean to someone else…especially if they are going through a rough patch in life. A kind word can change a person’s day and spill a bit of sunshine into their world.
Exactly, Linda! It’s such an easy thing to do too. ‘Love your imagery of spilling sunshine into another’s world!
Such true words that can change life for anyone who will implement it into their daily practice! I love your posts, and the way you model encouragement in the comments you leave. Refreshing, indeed!
Aw, such kind words, Erica–thank you. Praise God you find the posts here meaningful. I do love to lift the spirits of others, helping them see the positive aspects of their character and efforts, and boosting their confidence and faith. The proverb referenced in this post (11:25b) has certainly proved true in my life!
I love this! What a sweet story. You are right, when we offer kind words, it not only boosts the recipient, but us as well. I appreciate the encouragement to look for ways we might speak life giving words to those we encounter. Thank you, Nancy! 🤍
Thank you, Bridget! I’m so glad you found the post meaningful.
It’s so true that we all need encouragement. Countless times I have been encouraged by the kind words of others, and each time has made such a special difference in my day.
Amen, Cheryl–me too. I praise God for the encouragers he’s brought into my life through the decades, and the opportunities he provides for me to be the same for others. Both the giving and the receiving bestow delight!
That was such a wonderful message, Nancy. Every word was true. I remember one time, there were long lines at the store and it was very frustrating. One could see that in some folks more than others; but to the point, the cashier was a smiling, patient sweetheart. I had to tell her that. Her face lit up and I knew it helped. It helped me too, just like you said. Thank you for sharing this. I pray that I will remember this and bring some of Jesus’ light into another’s life. It does bless me as well.
Shelley
Thank you for adding your example, Shelley, showing how quick and easy it is to shine Jesus’ light into another’s life–with meaningful impact. Well done! Sometimes such encounters become the catalyst for relationships to form, which give us further opportunity to share the reason behind our joy (1 Peter 1:8-9)!
Practicing kindness toward and encouraging others are opportunities I seek out, Nancy. You’re so right about the blessing going both ways. Maybe, it’s from all my years of teaching that cemented in me the power of an encouraging word or gentle smile. We never know what good seeds we sow when we touch others’ hearts.
Blessings!
Did I know that you taught school?! Maybe I forgot. What did you teach? I was an elementary teacher for 26 years, mostly in fourth grade. / You’re right, Martha–we never know when the seeds we plant will take root and eventually produce fruit of their own. That’s our prayer, isn’t it!
Thanks for asking, Nancy. I taught seventh grade for the most part. Talk about a wake up call! They were always a bunch that could be as tough as nails and a soft as bread dough. Such an experience!
I have the greatest respect for middle school teachers. That’s such a difficult age to navigate, and those who help them through it are true superheroes/heroines! Thank you for dedicating yourself to that difficult endeavor, Martha!
To this post I say, “Yes, yes, yes!!” A positive and encouraging word to someone can totally change the trajectory of their day. And I know, with Aaron, that smiles of understanding and affirmation as we are out in public sure do lift a load of concern off my heart as I wonder how others are perceiving his actions. One can never underestimate the power of smiles and kind words. Great blog, Nancy!
Thank you, Patty. I pray you receive MANY smiles of understanding and affirmations, that people who encounter Aaron would want to encourage HIM.
Nancy, what a refreshing read. Your encouraging words meant so much to that mother…someone noticed her efforts and gave her encouragement. Words of encouragement would do much to soften our world. Thank you for always encouraging and inspiring with your lovely posts
Agreed, Pam–the world would be a much softer place if we all made an effort to encourage and affirm one another. I am grateful for YOUR kind words and encouragement!
25 years ago I was that mother managing 3 little ones (with one more on the way). I still remember the time that people took the time to compliment my children’s behavior. It meant the world to me.
Isn’t it amazing how those words of encouragement have stuck in our memories through the decades? It just goes to show how powerful they are! Thank you for adding your experience to the conversation, Ruth.
I don’t know why we hoard kind and complimentary words, when they cost us so very little and yet have such a monumental impact on the life it was bestowed. May the Lord rich,y bless you, my friend
AMEN to your first sentence, Brenda, and thank you for the second. God DOES graciously bestow rich blessings–every day! He makes me glad by his deeds and I sing for joy at the works of his hands (Psalm 92:4).
So much treasure in this post Nancy! I still remember the day an older woman encouraged me with kind words as I did the groceries with my baby in a sling, a toddler in the shopping cart, and my two boys holding on either side. Such power in a kind word!
Oh my, Jo, you really did have your hands full!! Well done, good and faithful servant, to accomplish the grocery shopping with four little ones in tow, AND earn a compliment from a passerby. That’s Proverbs-31-Womanhood right there!
I should say Nancy that was many years ago….my children are now adults! 😂 But shows how a word of encouragement can stick…even for decades!
Indeed those compliments and reassurances do stick!
An “afterglow of refreshing joy filled my heart” whenever I have read your posts!❤️
Aw. . . thank you Deb–THOSE are sweet words of encouragement! Praise God for his continuing flow of refreshment into our spirits, that we can then turn into refreshment for others (with his inspiration). It’s a sublime delight!
❤️❤️❤️
Such a small gesture on our part can go a long way. So glad you took the time to encourage that mom. I just watched my three grandchildren ages 9, 7, and 5 for 4 days. I don’t know how my daughter does it. I guess we had more energy when we were younger. I need to encourage her more after reading your blog post. And, of course, encourage strangers like your did.
Four days by yourself?! I’d say congratulations are in order for your stamina, Mary! Watching someone else’s children, even our own grandchildren, is different than when we raised our own–besides the fact we’re older. (In your case, you’re not that much older! 😁) For one thing, we don’t have the day-to-day routine automatized in our system any more. And I think we try harder to keep grandchildren happily entertained. As a mom we’re more likely to say, “I have to fix dinner–you’ll have to find something to do yourself!” (Not that that was a bad thing to do. Resourcefulness is an important life-skill!) I trust you kept the calendar clear a day to two after your babysitting marathon–for much deserved rest!
Sounds like you are speaking from experience, Nancy. You are exactly right about all that you said. I do try to keep them entertained even though my daughter tells me not to. I’ve never slept better the past two days. I’ll read this blog again before watching them next time. 🙂
I haven’t watched our two for more than three days, and that was only once. But even after a weekend of games (including “sword” fights with sawed-off pool noodles!), activities, crafts, excursions, etc. I do sleep GREAT! Part of the reason I keep them entertained is the FUN we have! Plus I want to make plenty of memories to enjoy when they’re too old for sleep-overs at Nana’s and Papa’s house. I’m sure you feel the same!
Yes! I want them to have happy memories coming over here. That’s why we push through the exhaustion! It’s worth every minute. My oldest will be 10 in November, so I’m sure the time is coming soon when he won’t want to come over and hang out with Nonnie anymore.
Of the two we babysit, the oldest is also ten. I’m with you–hoping the playdates and sleepovers last a few more years!
When my three children were very young and struggling with food and environmental sensitivities, their behavior wasn’t always the best. I’d go out of my way to compliment other mothers to make myself feel good. I gave them what I craved. Sometimes when I see an embarrassed mother with an “energetic” child, I’ll give them a supportive comment. Thank you, Nancy, for sharing how a simple kind word to a young mother is a powerful mood-lifter and for being that person who spreads joy whenever possible.
Oh Nancy–thank you for sharing your excellent point. We shouldn’t save the comments for stellar behavior only. An understanding comment in difficult circumstances can be just as valuable, maybe more so. I’m thinking of a mother dealing with an unhappy child, who’s been denied candy in the grocery store. Just a supportive look and a thumbs up to that mom (unseen by the child), can help that mom know she’s doing the right thing and at least one onlooker is on her side. Thank you again, my friend!
Good post, Nancy. We never know when a mom might be at the end of her energy and confidence, wondering if what she does all day really matters in the grand scheme of thing. She needs to be told, “YES.”
Amen, Annie, and well said! Thank you!
Nancy,
I hope we all have moments like that, giving and receiving. Have a great week and keep letting your light shine. In Christ, Gary
Thank you, Gary! You’ve got me thinking: giving and receiving encouragement works like an engine, keeping emotional and spiritual energy-fuel circulating through our systems! It’s an important task God has given us to support one another. It’s also a delightful privilege.
Amen.
Beautiful Nancy! In this world of brokenness, we need more balm for the wounded souls we meet.🙏🏾💕
Absolutely, RH! Thank you for reading and adding your affirmation to the practice of encouragement.
You never know what a smile or compliment can mean to someone passing by! As I have gotten older I am much less shy to tell someone that I like their outfit or something. Every time I do this the person has always responded positively. The other day my niece and I were in a restaurant parking lot and a little three-year-old girl was with her mommy and I said to the little one that I liked her hair. (She was a little blond and had two ponytails and was absolutely adorable.) She thanked me and proceeded to chatter away! She looked at my niece and told her that she looked like one of her dolls! I’m sure this exchange brightened my day even than the little girl and her mom. What a blessing she was to me!
The world tells us to look out for #1, but those that do don’t experience the superb delight God provides as we bless others (Acts 20:25). Thank you for adding this sweet illustration to the conversation, Cheri!
Wonderfully written, Nancy. I can imagine the look on that mom’s face when your words weren’t criticism but encouragement–we hear them so infrequently. And yes, the air does feel purer when we’re operating out of how God made us act–to encourage one another to love and good deeds. Very impactful.
Thank you, Dayle. I’m honored you found the post impactful–praise God!
Thank you for taking time to praise that mother! Mothers with young children so often meet with criticism. They need all the encouragement they can get. Encouraging others is something we all could use more of. Thanks for reminding us of that.
I didn’t feel like it took much effort or time at all to encourage that mom. And the reward of her smile and the endorphins for helping another human being was the icing on the cake! You are so right, Barb: encouraging others is something we all could use more of!
I’ll join you in growing as a encourager. Wouldn’t it be great if all of us did this practice more consistently. My mama used to say to remember to pass onto an overheard compliment too, not just something we observe but when someone mentions something nice about someone but not to that person directly. Indirect compliments can encourage too.
I’ve heard that too, Jean, about passing on compliments. Thank you for adding that positive behavior to the types of encouragement we can offer. Our world certainly would be a better place if we all practiced encouragement more consistently!