“You are a great mom.”
That’s all she said. A lady about ten years older than me, a complete stranger spoke into my life, and I still remember her words five years later.
My kids were running around in a fancy store, and I had to bring in the troops to let them know that if they didn’t stop running around, there would be a consequence. I think all three of them were on the crazy train that day and I’m sure that I looked as though I had no clue how to parent. But this mom, who could have completely ignored me and my people, chose to encourage me. “You are a great mom.”
As part of our school curriculum, we study ancient history. That sounds like child abuse, but it’s actually really fun… in a weird way.
My middle was reading about the Greeks, and in the book, there was a story about the women and girls who ran a race called the “Torch Race.” In this competition, all the female runners carried a lighted torch in their hand as they raced to the finish line. The goal, however, was not to just finish the race first but to put out each other’s light. Those who no longer had a lit torch were disqualified. The prize was given to the maiden who reached the goal line with her torch aflame.
Ugh. That story isn’t just ancient history. I have seen women today who try to make their light shine the brightest, pushing ahead with their own agenda at the expense of others.
What if instead we lived consumed by putting fuel on the flames of our friends to make their light burn brighter instead of selfishly hoping ours burns the brightest? If we lived not in competition but encouraged each other in a united front to light the world for Him? What if we all took time out to tell a stranger, “You are doing a great job.”
What if?
James Keller says, “A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.”
It’s true. I have experienced it.
This week, I challenge you to encourage a mom or friend and run alongside her. Think about who today you could encourage. Who needs to hear your words to continue her race strong? Who’s light can you help burn brighter? Send a card, pick up your phone, grab her a coffee… just help her keep her flame going.
HLLF – Melissa
