Thoughtful night with part of FOTS.
Everyone goes through their own pain and struggles.
It’s a joy to be able to share some with them.
Whenever I think, “What about my own needs?” , I remember Mentor’s experience…
He was feeling depressed over certain circumstances and was walking in school.
Then the students smiled and waved at him enthusiastically (most kids would, because of who he is).
Then he smiled back, greeted them and went off feeling much better.
“Because I always smile at them when I see them, so it’s a habit for them to smile whenever they see me.”
–
I see the same thing replicating in my own life. People I’ve spent time encouraging has, in recent times, gave back the exact same counsel ( it’s amazing words you hear them say… more amazing that they mention it came from you.) when I needed it. They’ll tell you how blessed they are after following your advice. And sometimes you wonder how they managed because you are going through a similiar experience.
What helps is a combination of a little pride/ego and teachability…
- proud and wanting to practice what you preach (lest I say something I can’t do – which decrease my credibility, i feel compelled to follow the same advice thrown back at me)
- teachability. you know, being so… willing to be moulded… haha. no really. i think for me it’s actually pride.
in any case.. it helps to sow in another’s life.
because you’ll never know how it can multiply out to bless even more. and sometimes, being blessed yourself at times which you least expect.
I believe God uses our seed to encourage others and ourselves.
perhaps tat’s why it’s more blessed to give.
—
sometimes I look at the burdens I have to carry, my needs which goes unmet…
and i look at the many other friends’ who share their problems with me.
and i can only say that i’m blessed beyond measure – and i have so much to be grateful for.
date this 14th Aug, 2.35a.m