encouragement

i read many articles saying that encouragement is very important to people that it may change somebody's life. the positive elements can make people transform their old way of thinking and sweep away negative stuff from their mind.

having read both falling leaves and chinese cinderella by adeline yen mah, i can say this is really true. little adeline could survive in her childhood when her stepmother treated her so badly was not because adeline was a strong girl (yes, she might be strong in her character to certain extent but she had a very negative image of herself because of how her dad and stepmother treated her). it was the continuous encouragement from her ye ye (grandpa) and aunt baba that had supported her emotionally throughout not only her childhood but also her life as a grownup. i am so moved as i read a letter written by aunt baba to adeline. the following is an excerpt:

...some day, you will be my age and may wish to speak to me but i may no longer be around. keep in mind always, always, no matter what, that you are worthwhile and very important to me, wherever i may be......whenever you feel discouraged, and those clouds come back, take out this letter and read it again. it is a message from your aunt baba, who will always hold you precious in her heart.....you have defied the odds and garnered triumph through your own efforts. your future is limitless and i shall always be proud of you...

though adeline had suffered so much and faced so many problems when she was growing up, it was the love and encouragement inside her heart that supported her to face those challenges and to tackle the life problems.

take an opportunity to encourage those who are weak! it may change his / her life...