One morning, a mom was overheard saying to her little girl, “You’ve been so good today; I’m very proud of you.” It’s amazing how the simplest words can mean so much. Perhaps you grew up receiving praise for your accomplishments, but not everyone has. One woman in her sixties has expressed that she has never felt accepted, good enough, or worthy. When asked if she was ever encouraged by her parents while growing up, tears came to her eyes. “No, I was only scolded when I did something wrong.” After all of these years, the little girl inside of her still desperately needs to hear what that little girl heard—if only once. 

Past generations didn’t routinely speak encouragement. But society has gone from one extreme to the other. Today, a ribbon is given for just showing up. You can’t host your child’s birthday party unless you invite everyone; no one can be excluded. Balance is the key. Genuine encouragement is what we all need and long for. Speak words of life into the lives of others, and you just might help heal a heart or two.