Dear Friends,
One of my favorite words is affirmation. It has been called the
second cousin to encouragement.
When I think of the word affirm, I think of making something firm,
for that is what affirmation does. It firms up and strengthens sagging spirits.
I love to be on the lookout for someone doing something positive
and then come alongside them and give them an affirmation ‘boost.’
The painter Benjamin West was just trying to be a good babysitter
for his little sister, Sally. While his mother was out, Benjamin found some
bottles of colored ink and proceeded to paint Sally’s portrait. But by the time
Mrs. West returned, inkblots stained the table, chairs, and floor.
Benjamin’s mother surveyed the mess without saying a word until
she saw the picture. Picking it up, she exclaimed, “Why, It’s Sally!” and she
bent down and kissed her young son.
West was always fond of pointing out that it was his mother’s kiss
that made him a painter, and a famous one at that.
Proverbs 25:1, says “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in
pictures of silver.”
West’s mother’s words were ‘fitly spoken’ and unleashed Benjamin’s
prodigious talent and painting.
Not only do children need affirmation, but everyone needs it.
Both young and old need to hear those powerful words that can
strengthen our spirits.
So let me suggest that you always keep your eyes open wide in
search of someone to firm up, support and sustain.
Those words, “you did a great job,” “I appreciate your kindness,”
“I love your smile,” “I’m amazed at your energy” might be the words that
can make a difference in one’s day and maybe even one’s life.
Even though it happened in 1972, I still remember the words a
respected pastor spoke to me over the phone: “Tom, you would be a perfect fit
for the position,” and those affirming words forever changed me and my
ministry.
So, if are not already a charter member of the “Affirmation
Booster Club,” join today. You’ll make someone glad you did.
Yours in faith and friendship,
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