Do You Believe?

Do You Believe?

Like Santa Claus, we do not do well unless we believe in ourselves and know that others believe in us too.  This is the special ingredient in the gift of encouragement Child studies reveal that all misbehavior stems from discouragement. In order to apply this very basic human principle, it serves us well to adjust our minds from the onset.

First, we must learn to accept and believe in each other as we are.  Learn to make the special uniqueness that sparkles from each one of us, paramount!  It is possible to accept people while rejecting certain deeds or behavior.  This is called "separating the deed from the doer."  All people have faults and of course they make mistakes.  To encourage each other we must not dwell on mistakes.

This may take some reaching into our bag of gifts and pulling out patience, forgiveness, acceptance and understanding...The true gifts of the Spirit!  This prepares us to appreciate efforts and to point out the positive.  Directing ourselves and others along the right road.  Sometimes we can do this without words!  By sprinkling silence and refraining from interference or advice when they attempt to resolve their own problems, we show them we respect their capability.

Oh, and let's not confuse encouragement with praise!  Encouragement leaves the person or child feeling good while praise indicates that you feel good.  The child may learn to feel that the goal is to please you, rather than develop his or her own independent potential.  We need to be careful that children do not believe their personal worth depends on the opinions of others or they may succumb to peer pressures.  By believing in yourself, you allow your true Spirit to take over at the reins, allowing you to discover passions and gifts along the path, that may otherwise have been blocked by needless detours.  Don't allow the frustrating bumps on the road throw you off course. Steer straight and steady laughing in confidence all the way!  Seek improvement rather than instant achievement.
  
There may be other things to prioritize, observe, appreciate or enjoy! Try them!
Observe the changes that happen to you and all around you when you just sit back. You may notice a little discomfort at first, but then the drivers seat will warm up and things will feel just right!  Often there is enlightenment to be found. Smell the roses or the pines; each has its own special merit.  In the season of cold and darkness bring in some of your own warmth and light, revealing the diamond in the rough as it lifts us all with its growing radiance!  In the hustle bustle of the season let us become selective about where we place our limited energies.  Lighten up and go with the glow, appreciating the independent charm and uniqueness of ourselves and each other!  With encouragement, we connect to the miracles and joys of the most precious gift of the season... Love!

Wishing you blessings of Love, insight, enlightenment and
the sense to choose happiness!



Blessing...
Charlene 

(C) Charlene Salvaggio - All Rights Reserved