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The joy of getting a booster!

Andrew Frere Smith reminds us how much a word of encouragement can boost our spirits.

As I write this, I am waiting for my Booster jab. I feel very fortunate to be offered this additional protection, especially when many people across the world are still awaiting their first dose.
 
As well as being a vaccination, a 'Booster' can take many other forms. One of the most powerful boosters can come in the form of encouragement. A kind word, well timed, can make all the difference.
 
I remember when, as a teenager, I was wondering what career I should pursue. One day my headteacher drew me aside and told me that he thought I would make a good teacher. That word of encouragement brought me the direction I needed. He planted a seed that led to an incredibly rewarding 25-year teaching career.
 
As a teacher, I soon learnt the power of praise as a booster. At the right time, a carefully chosen word from the teacher can have a wonderful impact. There were times when I saw children grow before my eyes. They would literally stand taller, puff out their chests and stride back to their desks.
 
Perhaps the best of all boosts comes from discovering that we can be loved, unconditionally. Nothing builds self-esteem more, gives courage to face difficulties, and hope for a better future.
 
Unconditional love is something that is promised in scripture. The Bible tells us that God's love for us is unconditional, and more than anything, he wants us to realise it. That realisation can be the greatest boost of all. Look at John 10 v 10 for example – “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full”.
 
One of the privileges we have, living as relational human beings, is that we can be the booster that somebody else needs. We can be the person that brings the kind word at the perfect time, offers the shoulder to cry on, or the smile of encouragement just when it's needed. We can be the person that listens, and in listening enables the someone to discover new strengths within themselves. We can be the booster that helps someone build resilience and hope.
 
We may be anxious about a booster jab but boosting can be a joy!

This article first appeared in the Imagine Norfolk Together: King's Lynn Newsletter.


 

AndrewFrereSmith750Andrew Frere-Smith is Development Worker for Imagine Norfolk Together, based in Kings Lynn.

 

 




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