MANILA, Philippines --- It is often said that encouragement is the oxygen of the soul. As one Hollywood actress once said: “We live by encouragement, and we die without it – slowly, sadly, and angrily.” Simply because the deepest need of human nature is the need to be appreciated, encouraged, praised and recognized. Not known to many is that while there are billions of people in this world who go to bed every night hungry – there are probably more people who go to bed every night – not hungry for food but hungry for a simple word of encouragement.

Let me share with you a story that I read in one of the book written by John C. Maxwell, one of the world-famous authors and motivational speakers. It is a story of a man who was about to jump from a bridge. Then “An alert police officer slowly, methodically moved toward him, talking with him all the time. When the officer got within inches of the man he said, “Surely nothing could be bad enough for you to take your life. Tell me about it. Talk to me.” The would-be jumper told how his wife had left him, how his business had gone bankrupt, how his friends had deserted him. Everything in life had lost meaning. For thirty minutes he told the sad story – then they both jumped!” (Reference: The Winning Attitude)

What a story! Instead of the police officer dissuading the despondent man not to jump from the bridge, the police officer was encouraged to be discouraged in life.

Encouragers are usually optimistic people. Cheery people who always look at the bright side of life. People who find this world an exciting place, cram-packed with opportunities. People who always look forward to a wonderful day – and who believe that rough stormy weather will not last forever.

Optimists have the talent to create an environment that brings out the best in people. If only people who lived in this world were all optimists – then there would be more achievers and definitely less criminals and juvenile delinquents.

I am sure many of you are familiar with the story of Star Daily, the English killer and robber whose evil ways was rooted in his childhood.

As the story goes: “Daily’s teacher routinely called on him to stand and read a passage in front of his class. He would step to the front of the room, hesitantly take the book from his teacher and attempt to do what he was instructed. The words seemed to run together and the harder he tried, the more inept he became. He repeatedly stumbled through the passages as the snickers from the classroom reverberated in his mind.

“On one occasion Daily was having an unusually difficult time with the reading assignment. Open laughter ensued in the classroom and even his sister buried her head in laughter and embarrassment. As he turned to the teacher for support, she too was hiding her laughter.

“Crushed, this timid little boy exploded in anger. He threw the book against the wall and ran out of the door. As he exited he screamed, “You will fear me! You will hate me! But this will be the last time you laugh at me!” As he ran, he killed, he looted and demeaned all those he came in contact with for the remainder of his life.

“The word encouragement means “to put courage into.” Encouragement provides the support people need to pursue their dreams and aspirations. It also fuels inspiration needed to face day-to-day challenges.

“Life could have been different for Star Daily. He wasn’t born a criminal, and I wonder what might have happened had he experienced the courage to face his fears.” (Reference: Collection of Stories and Anecdotes by G. V. Ekeren)

Let us be profuse in praising, encouraging, and complimenting other people. We do not live by bread alone. There is such a thing as psychological malnutrition. Stories have been told and retold about people striving to live up to the compliment and encouragement given them.

Have a joyful day!