Cheering Each Other On

Cheering Each Other On

Be happy with those who are happy.

Romans 12:15

When Kristin, Julie, and I found out we were going to write and publish a book, we were so excited. After writing together for the past several years on our blog, we were finally seeing a bigger dream of ours come true. When we told a few of our close friends, who had seen all the hard work we’d done over the years, their responses were priceless. They were beyond excited, cheering with us and even jumping up and down in celebration. They rejoiced in our success, and it felt so good to share this accomplishment with others who were happy for us.

Not long after this, I was reminded of a friend I had in junior high who had accomplished a goal she’d set for herself. I remember that I hugged her, congratulated her, and asked, “How can we celebrate together?” She looked at me and, with surprise on her face, said, “I’ve never had a friend who was happy for me when I did well.” I found this odd, thinking, Why wouldn’t I be happy for my friend who has tried so hard and done so well? But as the years have gone on, I’ve realized that we don’t always do a good job of celebrating one another’s successes or cheering others on in their pursuits.

In a world filled with competition, we can sometimes forget that celebrating others’ accomplishments and rejoicing with them matters. We shouldn’t let our own personal goals or even our insecurities hinder us from telling others, “I’m proud of you” or “You did a really good job.” But the truth is, one person achieving their goals doesn’t mean you can’t achieve yours—there is room for everyone, and God has a plan for each of us individually. Since we are called to “be happy with those who are happy,” what better way to show kindness to those around us than by celebrating with them in the joys of life?

—Kendra

— Today’s Act of Kindness —

Take the time to acknowledge and celebrate with someone who is experiencing a success or has accomplished a goal recently.