"A cheerful heart is good medicine..."

Last night I went with my husband to a fundraising dinner. There were several hundreds of people there, but in the crowd I happened to see a friend from high school. I made my way to him to say hello. This friend lives in town and we run into each other several times a year. As we chatted briefly he introduced me to his friend who was with him. I said hello, but the man was immediately familiar looking to me. I then inquired if we went to school together also? He smiled big, I guess the answer was "yes" and he remembered me. He didn't really say a lot but he began to pretend to be a cheerleader. I thought it was kind of funny.

I cheered all through high school.
That was a long time ago, but as I was reflecting today on seeing my friend I had this thought...
Even though high school was a long time ago, I still cheer people on today. I just don't wear a uniform to do it. I love breathing life giving words of exhortation into the lives, hearts and hopes of others. It doesn't at all hurt that words of affirmation is my primary love language so it is very natural to me to compliment and affirm others. I believe in people with all of my heart, but you can always count on one thing from me aside from encouraging...

I never say something I don't believe. I will never mislead you about your possibilities. If I don't see it, I don't say it. I will find something positive I DO see to say. I think I am wired to find something I like in everyone.

It all comes down to belief.
There are people all around with smiles on their faces, but maybe just need a little old fashion encouragement in their day. It's a very simple but powerful way to be like Jesus in a lost and hurting world.

~Nicole