I was told by one of my good friends that realism is not encouraging. We chuckled at the thought that either of us, who are both too realistic in approach, could be much encouragement to anyone. But as I have since reflected, I am beginning to disagree.Reality can be encouraging. Life is tough, there is no doubt. It is often “unfair” or “unrelenting” or even “unforgiving” by the world’s standard. But to learn to move forward, one step at a time, through the muck, that IS encouraging.

Encouragement is not about cheesy quotes and floral backgrounds sprouting inspirational sayings. Encouragement comes from watching a person climb from the rubble or limp across the finish line because he or she refuses to give up no matter how many times they are knocked down. That is the reality of life. And if you look at the many blogs, it is these people who are fighting against the grain and staying slightly above the landslide that are generating followers. Because learning to cope with the harsh reality of life IS more encouraging than throwing a momentary floral quote at it.