Words of Kindness, Source of Healing

One day, well into her adult years, Florence Littauer’s dad invited her into a tiny back room of the little store he’d operated for decades, reached into a hiding place behind an upright piano against a back wall, and retrieved an old cigar box.

Inside were a handful of articles he had published in the local paper. Until then, Florence had no idea her father was a writer. He’d never discovered his true potential because no one had ever encouraged him.

He told Florence, “Your mother always said, ‘You don’t have an education. You shouldn’t even try to write. What if you try, and it’s not any good? We’ll all be humiliated.’” And so, he only occasionally submitted an editorial to the paper and then anxiously awaited each new edition, hoping to see his writing in print. If they published it, he’d cut it out, put it in the little cigar box, and return it to its hiding place.

After his death, Florence considered that little box a symbol of broken dreams – things that might have been if only someone had received a little encouragement.

She now describes encouragement as a gift of words. Encouragement can strengthen your marriage, improve your parenting, and form bonds of intimacy that will help your family thrive.

On our Focus on the Family Broadcast titled “Words of Kindness, Source of Healing,” we’re airing a recorded message by Florence Littauer that will help you encourage the people you love to discover their true potential.

I hope you’ll join us on your local radio station, online, on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or on our free phone app.

I want you to know that generous friends are matching every donation you make to this ministry. Which means your gift will go twice as far toward rescuing hurting marriages, equipping parents, and giving families hope. For your gift of any amount, we’ll send you a copy of Florence’s book Silver Boxes: The Gift of Encouragement. Visit our website or give us a call at 1-800-A-FAMILY (232-6459) for more information.

You can find other helpful resources in our online bookstore.