Encouragement

Some people know exactly what they want to do in every stage of life.  This week I was lucky enough to go see two very different types of productions at local theaters.  One was a musical about a song writer in the sixties and the other was a big band performance of New Orleans Jazz.  The song writer passed away several years ago but the band leader and his two best friends from school were very much a part of the performance.  As I listened to the music last night, the one thing that the stars of both shows had in common was that they knew what they wanted to do at a very early age and they received encouragement from their mothers.  Mothers were mentioned either in the play itself or the program. Their creativity and talents were encouraged by someone close to them at an early age.  I think encouragement is very important at any age.  Letting someone know you appreciate their talents and the effort they put forth everyday can make a big difference to that person.  A singer wants to be heard, a dancer wants to be watched, a writer wants to be read.  We all want to be valued for who we are and the efforts we are making.  If you know someone who is trying something new or something different or just trying to find their way in this often difficult time, take a moment to encourage them.  It can be a special moment for both of you!  I would love to know who or what encourages you each day.