Encouragement

Last night I was able to do something that reminded me of how much I enjoy being a part of the lives of my nieces and nephews.  It reminded me that encouraging them in their various pursuits in life is something I can do to help them grow and mature - physically, spiritually, emotionally or mentally, whether they take only a few steps and realize that's not for them, or they dive right in and make it work.  I want to be there on the side lines cheering them on with all I have.

Last night I was given an opportunity to encourage and play cheerleader for my thirteen year old nephew.  Braden is in the process of writing a story/book, including drawing the illustrations.  He read a few paragraphs to me and he got me hooked.  I wanted to find out "what happens next."

The more we talked about this project the more excited I became.  Suddenly it dawned on me that, even if it doesn't go far, I want to help Braden publish his story.  That may mean doing a self-publication of the book by just going to a copy shop and running off a couple dozen copies of the book but this book needs to be in print.

I was able to encourage Braden that I would walk with him through this process and that I'd be the first one to buy a copy of his book.  Who knows where the book might go from there.

I was so pumped when I got off the phone thinking about the possibilities ahead for Braden.  I think he is even more excited about the book and seeing it in print now.  Yes, there is a long ways to go before the book is actually printed but I think both Braden and I have joined together to see this through.

I am excited that Braden shared his dream with me and now I can help him where he needs help and encourage him when he needs encouragement.  I look forward to holding the final product and sharing that special moment with Braden.

Write on Braden!  Write on!