We Need Each Other to Finish Strong

I was (emphasis on “was”) a half-marathon runner up until a couple of years ago when my knees starting singing songs of “gloom, despair and agony on me”. I knew I needed to hang up my running shoes and put on my walking shoes. I remember the many hours and days of training and preparing for the impending marathon events. That training, combined with friends and family support, would assure me of a strong finish.

I think about all of us in these formidable times. While I am in a cozy, safe place here in my little home all to myself, I am well aware of the moms and dads working from home and/or homeschooling their children, which is an unprepared-for-way-of-life. A young single mom I know is having to confront all this by herself – with four young children. And I think about those who are struggling with enough finances to sustain their families throughout this time of job loss. And I think about all the healthcare workers and the essential services workers who are being stretched to the nth degree. And so many others whose lives have been turned upside down. They must feel like they are in a no-ending marathon because what was days has turned into weeks and maybe even months.

I’m convinced this race we’re in won’t last forever. The end may not be in sight just yet, but it is, without doubt, up ahead. I remember how long my marathons seemed. One mile completed, then two miles, then three...... The energy at the beginning was being depleted as I ran. But a bright light shined for me when, at strategic locations, my family would be standing on a corner, holding up signs and cheering me on “Go Nana! Go Mom! You can do this! You’ve got this!” It was just what I needed to help me finish strong. It seemed there was no end in sight, but I would round a corner and up ahead I could hear the crowd cheering, the announcer declaring the names of those crossing the finish line, and I just knew I could make it and hear my name being announced. Hurting, exhausted, and worn-out as I was – I crossed that finish line. How sweet the victory was for me AND for those cheering me on.

What can we do to be those cheerleaders who push and pull us through these times? My daughter-in-love sent me lots of videos and photos of what they’re doing during these times. It made me tear up – with happy tears – to see them making the most of their isolation. We can do the same thing. We can hold up encouragement signs via drive-bys or social media, texting, making phone calls. We can assure others that we are REALLY praying for them. Maybe even offering financial support for those who are at the end of their resources. Those small acts help them know their value and worth to us.

And to all of you – all of us – who are in this “season” of so many unknowns, we are not without hope. A new day is on the horizon – maybe we can’t see the end yet, but it will be seen sooner or later. That’s what this daily blog is all about. To be a cheerleader to you – no matter what you’re facing today. To be a megaphone for God shouting out to you: “You are God's beloved child and you are worthy of being encouraged and supported as you continue to run this race. Live strong during these times with knowing that God is with you, cheering you on to your Finish Line. Run strong. Finish strong. And, pass it along!

“Help carry each other's burdens. In this way you will follow Christ's teachings.” Galatians 6:2

Being a Go-Get-'Em Cheerleader

I know my children and grands would tell you I’m a pretty good cheerleader. I purpose to be their #1 Fan and supporter. It’s a built-in power-pack that comes with the full-package deal we parents and grandparents come equipped with. God placed it in all of us. Not for just our own family, but all who are in our sphere of influence.

I’ve cheered for my kids on at sports events, talent contests and sales competitions. I’ve cheered for them in their academics and in their faith. I’ve cheered them through decision-making times and when life gave them some pretty rough seasons. I know that my encouragement has helped them push through their pain, anxiety, and determination to finish strong.

That's a beautiful picture of what we can do for our children as they embark on the great race of life. I know that’s why I’m here in this season of my life as an encourager aka cheerleader. I want my voice in print and in real shouts of praise to be echoing in my family, and in yours. I want to be a pumping courage and confidence into my children's hearts and yours. I know that an encouraging word, offered at the right moment, may make the difference between my children and you finishing well or collapsing along the way.

Sincerely, whether we are speaking affirming and encouraging words to our children and grands or speaking optimistic and uplifting words to everyone around us, we can be assured that what we are saying has the potential to change the course of someone's day, even their life.

I’m so grateful that we were THAT optimistic, faith-building, “go-get-‘em” kind-of-parents. It served us well and it served our family well because today I see my children cheering and encouraging their children I smile from ear-to-ear when I see my grands hearing and heeding their parents' advice and now embarking on their careers, their sports and their dreams.

We all should be those kind-of-cheerleaders who shout and cheer with phrases like: “You're gonna' make it!” “You can do it!” “I believe in you!” “You are special!” “You have what it takes!” “You're perfect just the way you are.”

My children are all grown up now, but I still purpose daily to speak or type/write a positive word to my four adult children. I want to continue to be a spark that ignites a great passion in their lives. I’m a cheerleading mom and grandmom and I want to "prophesy" success and blessings as they become the best people they can be!

And hey! I want to also speak good things to you and yours, my friends. That’s what this daily blog is all about. I want my light to shine into all those heart crevices to help you see what God sees in you. You are God's beloved child and you are worthy of being praised, encouraged and supported as you run your race. Live with knowing that God is with you, cheering you on to your Finish Line. Run strong. Finish strong. And, pass it along!

Encourage Others. Encourage Yourself.

I apologize in advance. I said that I wasn’t going to keep harping about my birthday, but the inspirations just keep coming. I was amused when my son turned 50 last year, and at his family celebration, his sons were playfully teasing him about his newfound midlife age of 50. They’d make remarks like “Dad, do you need help getting up the stairs?” While speaking really loud to him “Dad, can you hear me?” It was all in fun, but I remembered those words when I was turning 70. I was prepared to hear similar remarks but was pleasantly surprised that all of my family had such kind and encouraging words for me. Ryan was wearing a shirt on Sunday that said “Sundays” on it. Braden said, “Nana, be so thankful that you know what day of the week it is because Dad has to wear a shirt to remind him!” LOL! The most negative words I heard about me over the weekend were from me. I’d start to say something and lose my train of thought, and I’d say “Well, I’m 70 now. Get used to it.” Then I’d mentally spank myself for speaking negatively about my new age.

The second photo here is of a table with words on it that said: “70 Reasons Why I Love Nana”. (Check out our sweet Bentley photo-bombing!) Each one had written down encouraging words that were typed on cards for the table. Phrases like: “You are always smiling.” “You are so brave and led us parasailing!” “You are a Godly woman that shows us how to chase God!” “You are sooo much fun!” “You believe in me and help me believe in myself!” “You are the best Nana in the world.” “You take care of my animals.” “You are a prayer warrior!” Now, that’s what I call encouragement.

We live in a day and age when everyone wants a coach -- someone to spur them on – someone to be their cheerleader. But, in the meantime, if we don’t have those in our life, we shouldn’t just sit there, pining away because there are no cheerleaders in sight. We need to start being our own coach, cheerleader, and encourager by affirming ourselves: “Good job! Good Girl! Well done! You’ve got this! You nailed it!”

We should be encouragers to each other for sure, but it’s A-Okay to do that for ourselves, too. We need to coach our lips because we know that the power of life and death are in the tongue and we need to be careful with the words we speak to ourselves. We need to coach our head. The Bible talks about taking our thoughts captive. That’s so important, especially when our thoughts are running wild with negativity and worry and concern and we need to lasso them back into captivity. We need to coach our hands. What good does it do to have all the knowledge in our head of what God wants us to do and not do it? So many are looking for someone to rescue them, and with our hands reaching out, we can be the answer to someone’s prayer.

Our words should be filled with blessings -- words that affirm and approve; words that commend and compliment; words that specifically speak love and affection; words that invoke hope and self-confidence; and words that answer pain and disappointment with support and faith. May our words and actions bring light and life to our family and our world today. Let's be encouragers!

What's Your Name?

The words on this gal’s shirt captured my attention at my grandson’s baseball game: "Sarcasm -- just one more service I offer". And indeed that's what she offered. I couldn’t believe my eyes that she’d wear a shirt like that and neither could I believe the sarcasm that she had. It was evident that she wore that shirt with pride. I thought to myself, why would she want to call herself that or would want to speak of herself in that way? How about a t-shirt that said “Encourager” or “Cheerleader” or “Proud Mom” or even “Free Hugs”?

Then, I thought about a precious little child that I saw wearing a t-shirt with the words "I'm a little monster." Sure, that child might be a little mischievous, but by no means does that merit being called a monster. Whoever gave her that shirt, is labeling her "a monster"! What are they thinking?

Then I thought about the inspiring words of our close and dear friend, Zig Ziglar, who led the way in optimism, speaking on-purpose words that would build up others, and who wrote the best-selling books, “Born to Win”, “See You at the Top”, “Staying Up, Up, Up in a Negative Word”, “Raising Positive Kids in a Negative World” and so many more “what you say, is what you get kind-of-books”. Obviously, that baseball mom and the one who put a “monster” t-shirt on their child never read any of those books because they were speaking the complete opposite of positivity. Zig said these words in his talks and books:

“There is power in words. What you say is what you get.”
“The greatest source of happiness is to be grateful at all times.”
“You can get everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want.”
“Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude.”
“You were born to win, but to be a winner, you must plan to win, prepare to win, and expect to win.”

Our family gleaned so much from Zig's mentorship and leadership style. We raised our two children on his faith-filled, action-filled words. But, even more to the point is the Bible which says "As a man thinks in his heart, so is he." (Proverbs 23:7) And, talk about name-calling, how do you like the names that God calls us? Blessed, beloved, friend, child of God, chosen one, righteous one, princess, beautiful, blameless, light of the world, holy, royal priesthood, redeemed. So, as children of Almighty God and made in His image, shouldn't we be calling ourselves, and those around us, names that build up and encourage?

Our reality may just be what we're calling to ourselves. If we want and desire a life of joy, contentment, peace, and love, doesn't it make sense that we do our best to promote it in every way possible? If we want our children to be confident, feeling loved and embraced, shouldn't we be calling them champions? World Changers! History Makers! Brilliant! Smart! Precious!

Be the Cheerleader in Someone’s Life

Cheerleader -- an enthusiastic and vocal supporter of a team or person.

My son’s 50th marathon at 50 years old was everything we (his cheering squad AND for Ryan) had hoped and prayed it would be. He succeeded in accomplishing yet another big life goal. We were all decked out in shirts that showed our “Team Ryan” spirit. “2018 50th at 50”, with the back saying “Wuerch 50”. The night before, we were celebrating the big feat he would accomplish. We were all on tap for the 6:30 am start yesterday morning. The atmosphere was electric with the enthusiasm and spirit of all who were supporting the OKC Memorial of the 1995 bombing victims and families. As “Team Ryan”, we watched him take off at the start and then we’d drive to various points throughout the course to meet up with him to cheer him on. At the Finish Line, we had great places to stand and the announcer came up and asked about our runner. Ryan’s boys and two of his friends ran the last mile with him, and the rest of us were invited to run in with him through the Finish Line. The Announcer gave plenty of crowd encouragement to cheer us all on. It was certainly a grand way to celebrate as a family and friends.

On being cheerleaders in someone’s life…..did you know that we can operate in God-given ability to bring heaven to earth and create environments of love, hope, faith, and good CHEER in our world that sure could use some cheerleaders in it? I loved hearing the story about a woman who gets up on a chair in her home to cheer and celebrate her husband. Now, that’s cheering at its best.

It's our choice to be encouragers, supporters, strengtheners and cheerleaders to people in our lives. Chances are good that you have a cheerleader or two in your corner. There is someone or a group of someones who root for you when you apply to school, start a business, get promoted, win at a sport, perform at an event, or RUN a MARATHON. Those people are valuable to you because they confirm the best thoughts you have about yourself - thoughts that say you're capable, you're worthy, you're up to the challenge, and that you'll do just fine.

And I’ll bet you are someone's cheerleader, too. Cheering for our family should be by default. You root hard for your spouse or your siblings or your children and friends. You support them and champion what they want to do.

Who, then, can you cheer for? Who on your team or in your office needs a cheerleader, who may not have the support you have? Maybe it’s time we all get on our BEST cheerleading abilities by cheering for them AND cheering for the un-cheered-for. This is the task of a leader. Literally, the word leader is a part of cheerleader. Who will you root for today and tomorrow?

Thessalonians 5:11 "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up."

Encouragers…Time to Take Courage and Encourage

Have you noticed when you walk into a store and you hear one of the clerks or food preparers shout out “Good afternoon, welcome to ____”? Isn’t that encouraging? You were noticed! And you know that some of those sales clerks have been taught to say something nice to you like “I love your hair or I love your sweater!” In spite of it seeming a little trite, it still gives you a feel-good feeling, doesn’t it?

Yesterday, I started thinking about those people who have been encouragers to me. I remember, as a young child, the choir director pointing out “You harmonize so beautifully at your young age.” That gave me such confidence to belt out my harmonies even more. Someone else said, “Donna, you have the most beautiful clothes.” That’s because my sweet mama, though she didn’t have much financial wherewithal, she made sure that I had beautiful clothes to wear and she could do that because she was a great “deal” finder. I think that’s why, to this day, I go to the sales racks before I look at the full-priced items. In my post, yesterday, I spoke about how average I was in school, but when it came to my clothes, I stood out.

Today, I am an outgoing, avid writer, teacher and speaker, because my husband encouraged me to speak publically, to get my pilot’s license, real estate broker’s license and more. I had a boss who encouraged me to apply for a job that I didn’t have the required Master’s Degree for it, but he knew I could do the job. I did and he was right. More recently, was the encouragement and support I had during the time of my husband’s illness and later his passing. The loving attention and care from dear friends and family lifted me way above the fray. And, now, the encouragement I receive from so many of you, my FB friends and family – that cheers me on in doing what I’m doing right now -- encouraging me to keep encouraging.

I said all that to say, because I was encouraged by others…..I, too, became an encourager. And that’s my point today, to say it’s time for us all to put on our Encourager Hats. It’s obvious how much our world needs cheerleaders and encouragers. I know as I type this post, you get what I’m saying, because you sense God’s gift within you. You’ve been through your share of heartaches and someone was there to encourage you, so you know like 2 Corinthians 1:4 says “So that you might comfort others with the same comfort that you’ve been comforted with”, you must encourage others. Now you are passionately aware that you’ve been called to speak up, reach out and lift up others. It’s not always easy because you don’t want to intrude or be a “know it all”, but that’s not what matters. What matters is you have something to give even if the recipient seems to be less than aware of your God-given gift. Here’s how you know you’re an encourager:

~ You hear someone express pain – maybe from a loss of a loved one, or the loss of a marriage, or they are experiencing physical pain, you know you must encourage them with at least the words “I’m praying for you”, but you don’t want it to sound like a cliché. I promise you...it isn’t. However and whenever you say those words…it matters – if you pray. The power of heaven lines itself up with those prayers. It tells them….you care enough to call in the cavalry…..er’ CALVARY where God marshals His army of warriors on their behalf. They know they’re not alone in their fight.

~ What about that attitude of looking for something good in someone, like those store clerks, to build up and bring a bright light to their day? Why not encourage by remarking “You are the fastest cashier I’ve ever seen!” or “You are so friendly. Thank you.” or “I love your smile”. When we do that, we’re being encouragers.

~ Encouragers often go the 2nd mile. Sometimes being an encourager means we should go out of our way to encourage someone. Invite them to lunch so they can just vent. Offer to take care of their children so they can have a couple of hours of “Me Time”. Take over cookies or a cake with a little note that says “Thinking about you and what a great Mom you are!”

I promise you, every word and action we offer in whatever way, is multiplied and magnified. We hold the power in our hands when we pick up the phone to send a text or to type a comment in a FB post that speaks truth and life and comfort. It’s not as much about the actual words as it is about knowing we care. We don’t have to be concerned that our words are perfect and we should never let the enemy talk us out of typing them – he knows the good we do as encouragers and of course he gets all bent out of shape when we foil his plans.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing"!

Rise and shine, Encouragers! Let’s go get ‘em…..let’s ENCOURAGE!!

You Light Up My Life

I've thought about the impact some special people make in my life (you know who you are), and just by being around you, I feel energized. Your spirit of encouragement is contagious. I can't be down in your presence because you are such a light -- your glow rubs off on everyone you touch. You're so different than others. If it's raining, you say "Isn't this weather fantastic? The rain is so refreshing and clean!" If you're not feeling well, and I mention it....you quickly say, "I'll be fine tomorrow!" You are such a cheerful bundle of joy. You always see the glass full and overflowing. And my life is overflowing.....just because you are in my life!

There are those of you on social media who are that bright light to me, too. You don't bring your "baggage"to us. You refuse to be a "day-darkener". Your main objective is to be a light to this world of darkness. You are a cheerleader when you post. You encourage and bring hope and gladness to me and many others.

I like to think that the LIGHT that lives in us is dispelling the darkness in our sphere of influence -- at work, at home, at play, at school, at the restaurant, at the store, at church, at a football game, and on social media. In that case, "YOU light up my life" takes on a whole new meaning to a world that is begging for LIGHT.

"Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'” John 8:12. And, here's the real kicker.....Jesus said to us "YOU are the light of the world....." Matthew 5:14. WOW!! How's that for a standard to live up to? It sure puts onus on us to check out our wattage and our light output, doesn't it?

If you're reading this and think "She's sure not talking about me!" Then, I urge you to become THAT kind of friend who is a "bright light" to those around you because they need YOUR light to shine brightly! Then, when we sing "You light up my life", your sweet bright face and light will pop up brightly in our minds, because we're thinking about YOUR light!

What Do You Aspire To?

How sweet it was to watch my granddaughter, Lexi, and her friend, Emma, reconnect last week after having been apart for several years. They knew each other from Seattle and then their families moved away -- Emma's family moved to Austin and Lexi's to Frisco. I loved listening and watching them do what girls do....nails, hair and cooking.

Thirteen years old Emma inspired my post for today. Emma loves to dance so much that she has two-hour classes five days a week and three hours on Saturdays.

When we asked Emma what she aspires to do with her dancing (ballet), without hesitation, she said "To be Clara in The Nutcracker". Sounds like a lofty goal for someone just hoping and wishing and dreaming, but not for Emma. She is putting the hard work, diligence, determination and commitment in for her dreams and aspirations to be fulfilled. Emma's Mom is her greatest cheerleader because she takes her to Ballet Austin (in downtown Austin and if you know anything about Austin traffic -- that's quite a commitment). She is cultivating, embracing, and nurturing the giftings of her girl. She knows it is worth every effort, every investment of resources and time to help her girl become all God has destined her to be.

Emma inspired me so much that I knew her example would be my post for today. How many of us want to be great cooks, outstanding speakers or musicians, strong athletes and would like to be healthy, toned and lean? Quite often the "want to" doesn't measure up to the drive and determination to BECOME the best we can be -- in whatever or whoever we desire to become.

I heard it said about those who are frustrated at God because their dreams, prayers, and "wants" haven't come true: "You think you're waiting on God, but God is waiting on YOU to get prepared." Getting that promotion, the speaking engagement, or any other desire or dream we may have, rests in our hearts, minds and good old hard work and tenacity. Emma will no doubt achieve her dreams to be "Clara". She's doing what it takes to win. Will our passion drive us to where we want to go, too?

Philippians 3:14 "I press toward the goal to win the prize."

What's Your Name?

Day 203 of Photo Inspirations -- What's Your Name?
Not my usual kind of photo inspiration, but nevertheless it captured my attention and my thoughts about speaking what we want to be, instead of who or what we are. Yes, I was amused when I saw this lady's shirt and what it said. "Sarcasm -- just one more service I offer".  And indeed that's what she offered. This is one of the moms in one of the opposing teams that were at the tournament yesterday. Her sarcasm was evident.  And she seemed to be proud of it. It was who she was and I thought to myself, why would someone want to call themself that or would want to speak of themself in that way? How about a t-shirt that said encourager? Or cheerleader?  Encouraging and cheering others on.

I thought about a little child that I saw wearing a t-shirt that said "I'm a little monster."  Sure, that little child may have been a little mischievious. But by no means does that make her a monster, and neither should she be called a little monster. That little child didn't call herself a little monster, but whoever gave her that t-shirt and whoever put it on her is calling her that.

The Bible says "As a man thinks in his heart, so is he." We are children of Almighty God and made in His image. Why wouldn't we be calling ourselves and those around us......Beautiful!  Special? Precious treasure?  Peacemaker?

Our reality may just be what we're calling to ourselves.  If we want and desire a life of joy, contentment, peace and love, doesn't it make sense that we do our best to promote it in every way possible?  If we want our children to be confident, feeling loved and embraced, shouldn't we be calling them champions?  World changers!

What Do You Say and Think Each Day to Encourage YOU?

Who do you hang around with the most? YOU!
And guess what, YOU are your own role model and mentor and encourager..
What do you say and think each day to encourage YOU?

Being aware of what we say -- really does make us feel better.....or worse. Do you de-value yourself by saying..."I'm so stupid. I'm so fat. I'm so sick and tired. I'm so sad. I'm so lonely. I'm so afraid." Then, that's probably your reality.

Don't you love to hang out with those people who encourage you and make you feel good about yourself. You probably have a natural, encouraging response to others -- so why not do that, today, for YOU!

Believe me, I am my own greatest cheerleader. I have a wonderful family, and very special friends.....but they are busy with their own lives. So depending on them to be my 24/7 cheerleader, would be ludicrous. I encourage myself DAILY, and here's how!

I do it like David did. "David encouraged himself IN THE LORD." 1 Samuel 30:6. David sang "Oh, magnify the Lord with me." "Magnify" means "to enlarge or make bigger in perspective." We can't make God any bigger than He already is—we can't increase omnipotence—but we can magnify our perspective of God. And, perspective has everything to do with whether we are encouraged, or discouraged.

We can magnify God by speaking of His greatness, His power, His might, His love for us. And, bottom line, when we make God bigger, we make our troubles smaller. Indeed, as David sang his songs of praise, a change came over him. A spark of faith brought a glimmer of hope, and David could feel himself becoming encouraged.

And it's the same for you and me. When we encourage ourselves in the Lord, we recover our joy! I'm not talking about a surface joy, but a deep, abiding joy, that can be present even in the middle of sorrow. I promise you.....I know that JOY, because I get encouraged everyday by my closest friend.....ME! AND, YOU CAN BE ENCOURAGED BY YOUR CLOSEST FRIEND, too......YOU! Now, get your pom poms out, and create a pep rally FOR YOU! "I've got spirit, yes, I do; I've got spirit, how about YOU?

Be of Good CHEER!

I love the story our good friend, Zig Ziglar, told about the businessman who got a ticket for driving too fast on the way to work, who got to his office and yelled at his assistant, and then she yelled at the receptionist, who came home and yelled at her son, who kicked the poor cat. That little story describes how "our presence" -- good or bad -- can affect the atmosphere in our world.

Did you know that we can operate in God-given ability to bring heaven to earth and create environments of love, hope, faith, and good CHEER in every facet of our lives? It's our choice whether we bring anxiety or peace, doubt or optimism, anger or love into our world. Our kitchens, our workplaces, and even our cars can become "sanctuaries" -- safe havens and stability -- even in the midst of the bustle of activity....and life. They can be places were love is lived and where people sense God's peace and acceptance -- just because of the atmosphere we create.

Husbands and Wives, Dads and Moms, Granddads and Grandmoms -- we ought to be the family CHEER Leaders. And here's my suggestion for a family cheer. Get them up in the morning and say, "All right family. Let's all begin our cheer for the day. Jesus said be of good CHEER (Matt. 14:27), so here's our good CHEER. "WE ARE HAPPY. WE ARE BLESSED. WE ARE WINNERS. YES, YES, YES!! Two bits! Four bits! Six bits! A dollar! All for Jesus.....stand up and holler!!"

Okay....that's dorky, but seriously -- isn't dorky better than gloomy, cranky, angry and dreary? Our joy-filled, blessed, and grateful attitude will change our world and our calm, peaceful, and loving presence, that we create, will be infectious to our world. Let’s spread THAT presence today, and be of good CHEER!