Five Minute Friday:: Encouragement

I'm joining Lisa-Jo Baker for her Five Minute Friday.  The rules:

1. Write for 5 minutes flat – no editing, no over thinking, no backtracking. 2. Link back here and invite others to join in. 3. And then absolutely, no ifs, ands or buts about it, you need to visit the person who linked up before you & encourage them in their comments. Seriously. That is, like, the rule. And the fun. And the heart of this community.

The word today is Encouragement. GO.

Encouragement.  I need it.  I'm really good at it.  I can see when a friend, a child, a family member, needs some.  I have a hard time giving it to myself.  I'm always surprised when some comes my way.  I can be encouraged by small things.  The chance to wear tall boots encourages me.  Why?  I like them.  They make me feel a little trendy and cute.  I feel encouraged that I'm not just a mom wearing mom jeans.  I'm encouraged when someone tells me my story matters.  Or tells me that my musicianship is professional and good.  I suppose I worry too much about what others think.

I'm good at telling my kids when they do a good job.  I mean it when I say it, too.  I want my words to reflect truth.  I want to emphasize the encouraging truth.  It is encouraging when things go the right way.  It is encouraging when hard work pays off, even just a little.  I've been spending at least 5 minutes a day working on guitar.  I started working on "Simple Gifts" reading guitar tab and plucking out the tune.  I was getting discouraged, then the next day, I realized I had it memorized!  Just a little victory, and it encouraged me!

and STOP.

I really roamed in my writing today.  I'm working on getting my thoughts out.  Thanks for stopping by!