Every One Needs a Little

Last week The Girl went rock climbing with her Girl Scout Troop.

Having never done any rock climbing myself, I didn't know what to expect, or how the equipment worked.

We learned about the figure eight knot, and how to get harnessed in the gear. We learned what it meant to be a belayer.

The Girl was very nervous.

Her first climb wasn't very high.

I asked if it was because her arms and legs got tired.

She said it wasn't that...she said when she looked down, she became afraid.

There was another mom who was belaying (that's the person who has control of the rope so the climber doesn't plummet to the ground). She is a very quiet kind of gal. She doesn't say much...

But, when she had The Girl climbing that wall she would speak in quiet tones meant for only The Girl to hear, "That's it, G, keep your weight in your feet... Yes...That's it....You are doing a great job....There is a foothold just to your left...Can you reach it?....Yes, you have it!....Keep going...Your doing great....Look up, there's a perfect place for you right hand...You got it....Good job."

Whispers meant only for The Girl...

Whispers... of quiet encouragement help to set her eyes on what is important. Words to help make her climb  successful. Counsel that gave motivation to pull herself up when her legs were shaking from fatigue and her hands were stinging with blisters.

It reminded me to be aware of those around me who may be climbing the walls of life, who hang, mid-wall, without a belayer, shaking legs and bloodied hands.

Lord, help me to remember that quiet whispers of encouragement can be a life-line to someone else...give me wisdom to use them gently and lavishly.

Encouragement. Every one needs a little.

Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, 

because you, have refreshed the hearts of the saints.

Philemon 1:7