A teacher in a state penitentiary was particularly impressed by one of his students. The man, who was tall, quiet and bald, had been nicknamed “bonehead” by the other prisoners. During the course of that year, he attended six different classes. In each one he proved himself to be bright and hardworking. Yet, though he was an eager learner, he said virtually nothing in any of these classes.
The instructor developed a special attachment for this strange, quiet inmate. His efforts were rewarded, not by words from him, but by short, written messages. Each day, as he left class, “bonehead” gave him a note containing a comment or an observation. He was amazed at the perception and wisdom contained in them.
At the end of the year, certificates of achievement were given to the students. As he shook hands with “bonehead,” the instructor complimented him on his excellent attendance, superior attitude and hard work. “Bonehead” looked at him a moment and then softly said, “Thank you, Gerald. You’re the first teacher in my life that ever told me I did anything right.”
Hezekiah spoke encouraging words to people in distress (2 Chron. 32:6). The Apostle Paul, in the spirit of a father, comforted believers (1 Thess. 2:11).
Let’s learn to speak in a way which encourages others who may have unspoken needs. “I looked for some to take pity, but there was none” (Psa. 69:20). “Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down” (Heb. 12:12).
Ed.