Wednesday, June 27, 2007

ECHOES OF KIND WORDS

Fingerprint security access terminal - “Character isn't something you were born with and can't change, like your fingerprints. It's something you weren't born with and must take responsibility for forming.”

A little boy said to his father, "Let's play darts. I'll throw the darts and you say, `Wonderful!' "

Here is a boy who was not afraid to ask for the encouragement he needs. Maybe we all have something to learn from him!

Inspirational author and educator, Fr. Brian Cavanaugh, relates a story about the devastating effects of discouragement. Dante Gabriel Rossetti, the famous 19th Century poet and artist, was once approached by an elderly man who asked him to look at a few of his sketches and drawings. The gentleman wanted to know if the artist thought they were of any value.

As gently as possible, Rossetti told the man that the sketches were of no value and showed little talent. He apologized for the harsh assessment but said that he believed he should be honest.

The visitor was disappointed but asked the artist if he could take a look at just a few more, which were all done by a young art student. Rossetti looked over the second batch of sketches and immediately became enthusiastic over the talent they revealed. "These," he said, "oh, these are good." He went on to say that the young student shows much promise and should be given every help and encouragement, as he may have a great future if he will study and work hard.

The old man was deeply moved. Rossetti asked, "Who is this fine, young artist? Your son?"

"No," replied the visitor sadly. "It is I - forty years ago. If only I had heard your praise then. For you see, I became discouraged and gave up too soon."

Mother Teresa wisely said, "Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless." Sometimes it may be enough to just say, "Wonderful!"

From Lifesupport.

1 comment:

WaterLearner said...

Hi!

Small Stories but Big Enlightenment. In this world today, everyone face so much stress everyday from every angle of life. Many times, we merely need a nod of the head to show some support and as a sign of encouragement.

As the world today evolves to become a generation of critics where we tend to point out defects than to sing praises, I pray for a new wave of mutual support and encouragement will start soon.

It's a small world. We are but mere mortal beings existing for a short span of time on Earth. Let's make the experience of one another more pleasant.

Thanks for your good post!

Blessings,

WaterLearner (Singapore

LinkWithin

Related Posts with Thumbnails