It’s always encouraging to hear how our blog is making an impact in your life.  I just happened to run into a friend yesterday at a doctor’s office that I hadn’t seen in a long time.  He said he regularly reads my blog (this was a relief to hear) and then asked me when I was going to start my own church.  Well, I really didn’t know how to answer his question at that moment, so I took it as an affirmation that we are doing something right.  Truly grateful for that, Tom!

If you have ever been to a theatrical performance or concert, you have probably witnessed at some point, the audience rising in approval, screaming “encore, encore.”  It is one sure way to know that those in attendance, not only approve of what they just saw, they want more of it. So this week is all about giving you an encore performance.  My team looked at what posts were more popular over the year, and found Supporting Friends Through Tough Times as one of the more popular.  So what that tells us is that many of you have had your share of challenges or know someone who has.  I’m right there with you.

What encourages me, despite all of the challenges is that there are people like you, our readers, out there. We are sharing this blog again in the hopes that it reaches even more people and encourages you all the more.  Let’s be the change we want to see in the world!

Supporting Friends Through Tough Times

If you have been following my blog this year, you may remember that 2018 didn’t start out very well.  The career I had built abruptly changed after seventeen years. I had no idea of what I would do next.  Having no income and no insurance with four kids still at home will make any person a little anxious. I do believe going through hard times makes us a better person and friend if we embrace it properly.  The reason I mention friend is that often the things we learn and the person we become after going through hard times is an opportunity given to us to help others going through similar life circumstances.

I can honestly say, if it wasn’t for the support of my friends, going through what my family did, would have been much tougher and almost unbearable.  Because of them, I was able to find new meaning, strength and gain a fresh perspective, and ultimately, start the next phase of my life with a positive outlook.  God Bless You My Friends!

Sometimes we lose sight of how we can support a friend going through a tough time.  Here are few good ways for you to consider.

If you have an inspiring story of how a friend stepped up and helped you get through a very tough time in your life, we would love to speak with you and possibly share your story.  And if you enjoy reading our blog, the biggest thanks you can give is to share and spread the word with your friends and family. We would like to add them to our growing audience.

Your Virtual Life Mentor,

Doug