The Rollercoaster Ride: A Lesson in Praise

Dear friends, today I want to share a story from my youth, a story that taught me the power of praise. It’s a story about a rollercoaster ride, but not just any rollercoaster ride. This was a ride that changed my perspective on life.

The Fearsome Rollercoaster

When I was a young lad, there was a rollercoaster in our town that was known for its terrifying twists and turns. It was called The Vortex, and it was a ride that many dared not to take. I, too, was among those who feared it. But one day, I decided to face my fear.

The Challenge

With a pounding heart and sweaty palms, I climbed into the rollercoaster car. As the ride started, I closed my eyes, bracing myself for the worst. But as the ride went on, I realized something. The fear I had built up in my mind was far worse than the actual experience. The ride was thrilling, exhilarating, and, above all, fun.

The Lesson

When the ride ended, I was filled with a sense of accomplishment. I had faced my fear and come out victorious. But the real lesson came later. My friends, who had watched me from the ground, came up to me. They praised me for my bravery, for facing my fear. That praise felt good, but it also made me realize something.

Praise is not just about making someone feel good. It’s about acknowledging their efforts, their struggles. It’s about recognizing the courage it takes to face our fears. And most importantly, it’s about encouraging others to do the same.

The Power of Praise

From that day forward, I made it a point to praise others for their efforts, no matter how small. I saw the power it had to motivate, to inspire, to encourage. And I realized that praise is not just a reward, it’s a tool. A tool that we can use to lift others up, to help them face their fears, to help them grow.

So, my friends, let’s not be stingy with our praise. Let’s use it to inspire, to motivate, to encourage. Because in the end, we’re all on this rollercoaster ride called life together. And a little praise can go a long way in making that ride a little less scary and a lot more fun.

Until next time,

Kev