Vain Encouragement

Sometimes, life can be extremely difficult and the last thing we need to hear is “vain-cliché” encouragement.  Empathy is more than ‘just’ saying the right thing or what seems to be appropriate, but, a conscious awareness, possessing the ability to acknowledge, comprehend, and share the feelings of another.  Share is a strange and often misrepresented dynamic.  Often times, the concept of sharing is viewed from a selfish perspective. Though there are times that being selfish is appropriate, it should never be present when providing encouragement.

 Encouragement is an act of giving that is meant to meet a need.  In order to give, we must position ourselves in such a way that our lenses shift from inward to outward. Here’s the catch, while thinking, “how would I feel in this situation?”  It is very important to distinguish, “how I feel” versus “How I’d like to feel” and “How I ought to feel” vs “How I need to feel.” Having this conversation within prepares us for our governing actions.  These actions are typically vocalized, first. Many people have damaged others with good intentions, encouragement is no different. 

 Many are unaware of the power of words, not realizing that everything that is or whatever will be is shaped and fashioned by the utilization of words. That same respect, with words, we have the ability to build, shape, breakdown, and/or destroy others with them.   The most dangerous weapon on Earth is the power of the tongue. Though from Abrahamic Religious perspective, there has been a heavy reverence of the word, whether it be living or communicative, it still has power.  We actually assess others on their usage of words.  Just think, we vote for our political figures based on what they say.  We attend empowerment sessions of who we believe are extraordinary speakers.    Because of the way we evaluate words, we must be equally critical in the way that we encourage others.

 We are living times where people are hurting for a change and leaning heavily on the possibility of hope.  Therefore, being presented with an opportunity to encourage should be regarded with the highest respect.  When a person is in a posture to be encouraged, they are in a vulnerable state of receptiveness.  We want to optimize these encounters with words of substance that will empower and strengthen.   Sometimes, the cliché rhetoric deteriorates the advancement of others and his or her community. Bridge gaps and fortify unity through encouragement. We should esteem togetherness, not vain gratification of soapbox indulgence.