BELIEVE.

BELIEVE. What do you believe in? Santa? Others? Yourself?

This is the time of year when the word "believe" pops up in Christmas messages. Along with other nouns like Joy, Love, and Peace. These words invoke internal reactions that translate into outward actions.

Now I know better, but I love to believe in Santa. I love the red suit, the comforting face, and the jolly laughter that comes from "ho, ho, ho." It invokes in me a memory of my dad playing Santa with his real white beard and bass voice laughter. My dad went to be with the Lord four years ago, so this memory is more real to me than ever before each Christmas season. I took it for granted for many years and now I truly miss the image, the voice, and his presence.

For me, "believe" is one of my favorites as it means to accept something as true or feel sure of the truth of (Webster.com). Many times when encouraging others I will say, "I believe in you." Why? Because I want them to believe in themselves. I want them to be encouraged, empowered, and comforted. As a young parent, minister, and leader I have thought about those times in my life when I spoke to children or even adults and wondered if it helped them to believe in themselves.

Was it encouraging or critical?

Was it empowering or desecrating?

Was it uplifting or discomforting?

Even as a mature woman and leader, do I provide positive words or discouraging ones?

For myself, "believe" is a word that connects me to my faith. As a Christian, I believe in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as a guide, comforter, protector, teacher, Savior and so much more. The Bible talks about believing in Mark 9:23, "Jesus said, All things are possible for one who believes."

For me, "believe" is the essence of an inner word thought that evokes an outward emotion. It helps me to be intentional in seeking joy, practicing peace, and spreading love. It is found in my smile, laughter, touch, and hugs. I am an extroverted, relational person that seeks the same in return, although I don't give to receive. Not all people are like me so I have to ask before being a hugger and respect their personal beliefs.

I give because it's my nature and my desire to point others to believe in themselves.

This Christmas season, believe in others, yourself, and the baby in the manger that came to save us all.

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6).

What She Said ~ Beverly

#believe

#others

#yourself

#faith