Encouragement – An Enormous Gift For All Of Us

“One of the greatest gifts a person can give another is support.” Unknown

By Debby Blettner

I was desperate for a great shot of encouragement.

In the late 1990’s my husband was given immediate surgery to extend the three months of life expected from his diagnosis with aggressive testicular cancer.

I felt it was unfair to be so heavily tested, especially my faith and belief.

My childhood friend died of bowel cancer shortly after I had been diagnosed with breast cancer, plus I was disabled with a severe frozen shoulder.

Surely my life would change forever, once I got through it, regardless of the outcome.

After my tears subsided, I saw a flower stall displaying a bright red, heart-shaped balloon with the inscription, “I love you.”

I purchased it without a thought.

Desperately waiting for his eyes to open after the surgery while my eyes shining from the tears, I approached him with my gift balloon.

I smiled knowing my love and acceptance was the greatest healing potion I could offer.

His eyes welcomed me, as if we had just shared our wedding vows while holding each other’s gaze.

The moment was broken by the announcement that I could take him home as soon as I was ready.

The surgery had been a success!

This memory is more than two decades old but still as fresh to me as a dew-covered rose.

Moving forward, comfort, faith, and acceptance encouraged me to comfort others.

My future became encouragement with those who inevitably fell into my arms, using my shoulder to cry on.

Simply holding them, while shedding tears, helped me to hold my faith and belief that all things work together for good, no matter what. (Romans 8:28)

Oh Lord, make me an instrument of your peace (and comfort.)

Paraphrased from The Prayer of St Francis.’