Being an ENCOURAGER does not take a lot of time, effort, or money.
Just a smile, a kind word, or a thoughtful gesture can make someone’s day or even give them hope to get through a tough situation.
Maybe your cashier is having a bad day; it only takes a minute to say, “I hope your day gets better”. What if you see an elderly person struggling to load their groceries in the car? Would you take the time to help them?
All too often we get so caught up in our own lives that we don’t notice what the person next to us is going through. I know I’m guilty! It is easy to get caught up in going from one task to the next… staying on schedule… marking ALL those things off the To Do List!
A few weeks ago I was pulling into the parking lot of a local dollar store when I noticed a woman on an electric scooter. She pulled right up to the handicap ramp, next to a pole, so she could hang onto it as she stood up. By this time, I was out of my vehicle and walking by. I spoke to her and held my hand out for assistance and offered to help her. She said, “Oh no, I got it! Just trying to get out a bit like my doctor tells me to.” She didn’t “need” my help but she was sooo appreciative. We chatted as we walked in together. She definitely wasn’t smiling when I first saw her, but now she was grinning. I think she was happy just because someone noticed and spoke to her. I could have easily walked past her without saying a thing but I am sure glad I didn’t… It made us both happy.
Be Sensitive to those around you!
5 Simple ways to Encourage a Stranger
- Smile☺- It’s contagious
- Be a helper – hold the door, if they drop something – pick it up, carry out groceries, etc.
- Ask how they are doing – look at them while they are answering you
- Tell them you appreciate them (veteran, waitress, cashier, etc.)
- Pray for them – if the opportunity arises offer to pray for them
Have you ever been discouraged or struggling and someone did something special to lift you up? Leave me a comment and let me know what encouraged you the most.
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