kindness – Positive Woman Connection

Sincere encouragement is like water to a thirsty soul. Deep within every heart there is a longing to be known, seen, heard, and appreciated. Often in the hectic pace of life, we miss the moments to share an uplifting word, a loving smile, a thoughtful hug, a handwritten note, or simply just being available. As grandparents have an unique opportunity to bolster the hearts of our little ones.

Now I’m not suggesting that we shower our grandkids with fake flattery. Kids can spot insincerity faster than a squirrel can bury a nut. Effective encouragement must be straightforward and specific. Instead of saying, “You’re the greatest…..in the world,” (which I think I can safely assume they are not), say something like, “I saw how hard you practiced for the game. Your persistent preparation paid off!” You can add, “I noticed how patient (or kind or precise or thoughtful) you were during the game. Great job.” Now you have given them a gift that is meant specifically for them.

Here are a few effective ways to spur on and uplift our grandkids:

Write notes on a regular basis. The lost art of writing a letter can be a special gift to this young generation. Share a scripture you are praying for them. Tell them that you love them. Give them a specific and uplifting boost from your heart to theirs. Whether they live near or far, a simple note can mean the world to them and create a bond between you. For young ones, simply send a picture along with an I love you. It may be helpful to choose one day a month as your letter-writing day to grands.
Look for opportunities to speak life giving words. Whenever you are present with your grandkids, you can discover ways to embolden them. Look for moments to motivate them. Sure, it’s easy to spot someone doing something wrong. We must be extra vigilant to catch them doing something right. Seize every opportunity to say a good word about their hard work or character. If you are watching their games or performances long distance, you can still deliver a positive message of support.
Smile, hug, listen. Sometimes the best way to strengthen the heart is non-verbal. I like to say that a smile speaks a thousand words. It says, “I love you. I’m thrilled that you are mine. You are precious to me.” Even a facetime or video smile can boost the spirit. There are also times when our kids simply need a hug or a listening ear. Never underestimate these powerful forms of inspiration and motivation to uplift our young charges.

The root word “cor” in encouragement comes from the Latin word for heart. When we offer sincere and specific words of support for our grandkids, we are actually strengthening their heart. Who doesn’t need a little heart-strengthening in today’s world? Let’s be intentional about uplifting and inspiriting others, especially the next generation! No more grumpy grandparents – right?

For more ideas and encouragement for you or your kids, check out Karol Ladd’s books on Amazon.

brigitte-tohm-69300-unsplash

Do you have a genuine desire to help others and improve the world around you? Research tells us that people who demonstrate kindness through acts of altruism or volunteering on a consistent basis generally experience a higher life-satisfaction and even show fewer depressive symptoms. Whether you get involved through an organization or club as a volunteer, or simply reach out to a co-worker or friend who is struggling or lonely, caring and compassion has multiple benefits.

Certainly, our motive in volunteering is not just to make ourselves happy, but a sense of satisfaction and contentment is a welcomed outcome. Typically those who are required to volunteer (for a school assignment, college application, etc.) do not feel the same sort of satisfaction as those who are intrinsically motivated. A sincere desire to help others is one of the keys to experiencing a sense of contentment and well-being.

It’s difficult to give love if we don’t feel loved. Demonstrating a true compassion and love begins in our heart, when we recognize our own brokenness and need for redemption. When we know and receive God’s love, we are better able to pour out that grace-filled love toward others. John (the beloved disciple) put it this way, “We love because He first loved us.” As we draw close to Him and embrace His love, we can allow that love to overflow into a life of care and service.

Additionally, studies show that the recipients of acts of kindness who are encouraged to participate or cooperate in some way experience a greater level of happiness than those who simply receive the benefits with no participation. I found this research particularly interesting, since the parenting outreach I started several years ago invites parents to participate in the classes and empowers them to discover their own solutions, instead of simply being told what to do. And yes I’d love for you to consider joining our team of volunteers at Engage Positive Parenting Initiative! For more information go to www.EngageParenting.com

So where do we begin? Prayerfully ask God to lead and guide you to a place where your gifts and talents can be used to help others. He has equipped each one of us with unique abilities to care and serve. The apostle John reminded us, “Let us not simply love in words or in speech, but in actions and in truth.” May we be faithful to step out of our comfort zone and into the lives of those who could use a helping heart.

Paper bag Photo by Brigitte Tohm on Unsplash

Engage Header 2-01