A group of frogs were traveling through the woods when two of them fell into a deep pit. All the other frogs gathered around the pit. When they saw how deep the pit was, they told the two frogs that they were as good as dead. The two frogs ignored the comments and tried to pump up out of the pit with all of their might. The other frogs kept telling them to stop--that they were as good as dead. Finally one of the frogs took heed to what the other frogs were saying and gave up and died.
The other frog continued to jump as hard as he could. Once again the crowd of frogs yelled to stop the pain and just die. He jumped even harder and finally made it out. When he got out the frogs asked "Did you not hear us?" The frog explained that he was deaf and thought they were encouraging him the entire time.
"My ability to arouse enthusiasm among people is the greatest asset I possess. The way to develop the best that is in a person is by appreciation and encouragement"
-Charles Schwab
It's sometimes hard to believe that an encouraging word can go such a long way. Its far too easy to speak words that can rob someone of their spirit in difficult times. Special is the individual who will take the time to encourage others.
I think we do that on this board. I think that quilters are indeed special individuals with the spirit of encouragement!!