Generosity of Belief

When did you start to believe you could do hard things? It’s a question that requires some reflection and, if you’re an honest person, maybe a concept you’re still trying to convince yourself of most days. As a mom of a three-year-old daughter eager to explore the world, I hear myself repeating versions of this sentiment regularly. Maybe it’s while watching her attempt a new skill, taste a new food, or learn to make a new friend. I’m quick to remind her, “You’ve got this, girl! I believe in you!”

I have recently been considering what it means to lead a life of generosity in a variety of forms. Now, before you clutch your wallet a little tighter, I’m not speaking about financial generosity, although that is very important. Today, I’m exploring the generosity of belief.

“I believe in you.”

It’s not lost on me as a mother that my words will become my children’s inner voices as they navigate this world. Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel famously said,

“Words create worlds.” – Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel

Meaning, language shapes reality and, ultimately, our beliefs about the world and our place in it. The words we speak matter and have more power than we often realize. If our words hold so much weight, how might we speak them with a spirit of generosity?

I’ve experienced the generosity of belief several times throughout my youth and adulthood, and I can honestly say that the spoken belief in my abilities from people who took the time to share it has fueled the trajectory of my life. When my high school volleyball coach told me that I was a natural teacher, I began seeing myself in a new light. When Natalie, the first female youth pastor I ever met, offered me an internship in college to work with students, she blew the doors off what I thought was possible for my future. I have been blessed by the generosity of others in more ways than I can count, but I would argue that the most influential generosity I’ve ever received has been the gift of belief in my abilities.

This gift is not just for three-year-olds learning to ride a bike. These four words, “I believe in you” have the power to impact anyone who needs to know they are capable of more. What I love most about this form of generosity is that it is a truly limitless resource. It is not restricted by commas and zeros, years of experience, or strings attached. It’s a gift that shapes inner dialogue and future dreams. It produces possibility and stockpiles confidence. It can be given by anyone willing to take the time to notice and name an ability they see in someone else.

Notice

This form of generosity is impossible to give without the discipline of noticing others. Who has God placed in your circle of influence that you could speak generous words of belief over? A little empathy goes a long way in recognizing other people. A pregnant mom about to welcome a new baby into her nest? A recent high school graduate preparing to leave home for the first time? A coworker with a lot on their plate? Take the time to notice the people in your life and the unique season they are in.

Name

Noticing is not the same as naming. The magic of belief only happens when we name what we notice. Don’t overcomplicate this step, and don’t talk yourself out of it. Your words are powerful, and they matter. Being generous with your belief can sound as simple as: “Hey, I just want you to know I see your effort, and I believe in what you are trying to do here. I hope you feel proud of how far you’ve come. I think you’re killing it!” If you think it will feel weird, you might be right. Say it anyway.

Living a life of generosity is far simpler than we’d like to believe, and the blessings received in return are far richer.

Don’t forget: you can do hard things.

Be encouraged, friends.