Yesterday was an interesting day in our
family, and one that has left an impact on me. Ethan, who is on the Academic
Bowl Team for his school, was preparing for his first meet. It is not unusual
for him to experience nerves before such things – perfectly normal, right? – and
he experienced some upset tummy issues preceding the event. I was certain it
was just nerves, as were the teachers who were there to support and encourage
the kids in their competition. As the event went on – and our school did very
well, placing second in the meet – Ethan obviously was not feeling well. He had
to make repeated visits to the restroom, but every time, was accompanied by one
of his faithful teachers. After the event was over, poor Ethan only got sicker,
proving that his affliction was not nerves, but a bona fide stomach and
intestinal virus. When I asked how he was able to compete, and contribute
significantly to his team, he indicated that he did not want to let his team or
teachers down. I was stunned and so incredibly proud!
I allowed the events of Tuesday evening
to ruminate in my spirit. When I woke up on Wednesday, I was still impressed by
Ethan’s resolve and the inspiring events of the previous day. This led me to
write a letter to the principal informing her of not just how faithful the
teachers had been, but how compassionate as well. I also wanted the principal
to know that the encouragement Ethan received from his teachers enabled him to
power through the competition when in all honesty he would have far preferred
to go home and crawl into bed. I realized there was a cycle of encouragement
that I needed to participate in and I wanted to make sure that the
administration knew just how important it was, not on a Tuesday afternoon, but
in what could be a significant life event in my son’s life.
Almost as soon as I sent the
complimentary email to the principal, I got a very kind reply. She indicated
that she was pleased that I took the time to write a note and wanted to make
sure that the teachers saw it as well. Then something struck me: we are far
more willing to share our displeasure with something or someone than our
appreciation. I think it is true and I know it is sad. There have been times in
the past when I would have good service at a store or a restaurant that I would
share that with management, and almost every time I hear that they typically
only hear complaints, not compliments. And honestly, as a leader in the church,
I have found this to be true as well – as human beings, we seem to be more
adept at sharing our complaints than our compliments. Sure, squeaky wheels get
the grease, but maybe, just maybe, wheels wouldn’t get quite so squeaky if we
let people know how grateful we are and how much we appreciate them for doing
things for us, even when it is their job!
In 1 Thessalonians 5.11, the Apostle
Paul wrote, “So speak
encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you’ll all be together in
this, no one left out, no one left behind. I know you’re already doing this; just
keep on doing it” (The Message). I love this verse. It speaks to this
phenomenon, I do believe. The more we make an effort to encourage someone, the
more likely we are to go the extra mile and make a difference for someone else
in the midst of their daily coming and going in life (see Matthew 5.41). It
reminds me of the old idiom, that it’s easier to attract flies with honey than
vinegar.
I hope you will
allow this concept to do more than just go in one eye and out the other as you
read this article. I hope you will think about how quick you are to compliment
or complain about someone or something. Know that an encouraging word from you
for someone else – even when they are doing what they should be doing – can and will make a difference. May the wisdom of
Proverbs 12.25 stick with you and inspire you to do something to brighten
someone’s day: “Anxiety weighs
down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.” You never know…you might just realize how much even you yourself needed
to shine a little light for someone!
Have a great
rest of the week!
Pastor Mark
No comments:
Post a Comment