Comments on: Memories That Linger

By: JenDeshler

JenDeshler — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 03:15:13 +0000

Hi Sandi,
I love this story. It’s true-one kind word can bridge many gaps. Thanks for sharing!

By: Sandi Banks

Sandi Banks — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 02:39:43 +0000

Your post reminds me of Elvis Presley…and my mom, who, like most moms in the 1950′s, was irate when this wild new rock-n-roll guy came on the scene. But a decade later when Mom was playing her harp in Elvis’ orchestra she had a paradigm shift: his kind words of encouragement behind stage one night– and his sincere personal interest in her and IN THE PASSION OF HER LIFE, her harp– totally changed this irate mother into an ardent fan, to the day she died. It didn’t cost Elvis much, a couple minutes of his time, perhaps. Same for us — often just a smile, a touch, a word, a listening ear, or a sincere interest in someone’s passions or dreams. The POWER OF ENCOURAGEMENT can change a heart. Or win a new friend. I wonder who God will put in our paths tomorrow . . . ? Thanks for your post, Jen!

By: JenDeshler

JenDeshler — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 21:39:29 +0000

Hi Sandra,

I love that mental picture of kind words helping to reinforce others’ armor!

By: JenDeshler

JenDeshler — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 21:38:39 +0000

Hi Karen,
Someone just told me about a mom and child who set aside six minutes each night to look only at each other and talk about their day. I love this act of intentional listening, and can’t wait to try it out with my own kiddo tonight. It’s not enough just to ask about someone. As you said, the listening is what really matters. Thanks for that reminder.

By: Karen Jordan

Karen Jordan — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 21:13:10 +0000

So few people really listen–I mean really listen–where they engage in the conversation and not just stare blankly at the person talking. That’s a true gift of encouragement to me. Plus, reading what I write is a boost, too!

By: Sandra Heska King

Sandra Heska King — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 20:37:55 +0000

I agree with Lindsey. We never know what battles others are fighting, and a sharp word or a spurt of anger might be just a symptom. A smile and a word of encouragement can reinforce their armor.

By: JenDeshler

JenDeshler — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 20:35:26 +0000

Mary,

I look forward to reading Thin Places soon. Your history is helping change the future for others.

By: Mary DeMuth

Mary DeMuth — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 20:26:51 +0000

Great, important reminder. It’s strange how often the memories will come at times, and other times my mind is a desert! Thankfully, I was able to remember the most vivid memories in my memoir.

By: JenDeshler

JenDeshler — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 19:55:09 +0000

Lindsey,
Here’s a kind word from me. I think you rock

It’s amazing how just little acts of acknowledgment make such a big difference.

By: JenDeshler

JenDeshler — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 19:51:18 +0000

Katie,

I love Bryce’s goal of finding something unique about everyone we meet. If we all did that, the world would be a radically different place. Thanks for sharing.