After many, many years, Edison’s mother died, and he had become one of the greatest inventors of the century. One day he began looking through old family things. Suddenly he saw a folded paper in the corner of a drawer in a desk. He took it and opened it up. On the paper was written: “Your son is addled [mentally ill]. We won’t let him come to school anymore.” Edison cried for hours and then he wrote in his diary: “Thomas Alva Edison was an addled child that, by a hero mother, became the genius of the century.”
Life can be very challenging most of the time. As we live our lives, we need a lot of help along the way. Ziglar once said;
“Yesterday ended last night. Today is a brand-new day and it’s yours.”
I have come to value the gift of encouragement because of what I’ve seen it do, not only in my own life but in the lives of others. Sharing and giving encouragement is so much more than saying a few nice words; it is a gift that can literally transform people and their circumstances.
Do you know someone who needs your care and compassion today? You simply do not know how long you have to make a difference in another person’s life. Make the most of the opportunities given to you. The gift of encouragement is within you right now. Share your love with others verbally, physically, patiently, gratefully, generously, tenderly, forgivingly, devotedly, cheerfully, and honorably—then observe how life changes and enriches yourself and others around you.”
Thanks Jonathan for this story of Thomas Edison’s encouragement by his mother. When you do small things consistently, you find yourself on a trail of miracles. By extending your tiny things to teach others you change their world.
blessings,
Cynthia
Jonathan, your encouragement has empowered countless individuals to step up to face their challenges, to step in and come to the aid of another, to step out and invite others to be part of something greater than themselves. Thank you for this magnificent piece that spreads peace and brings courage to those who embrace your message. God bless you.
Thank you most kindly Jane for your encouraging words. I also appreciate you taking the time to give such wonderful feed back.. Yes, indeed even simple expressions of appreciations does make people feel relevant adn recognized and I have learned even from the unfortunate beggar , that a smile can equate to encouragement and can make all the difference in the world. Thank you again