This is me.  I am a fixer. If it is broken? I feel the need to fix it…and if it can’t be fixed? Then I feel like I have failed those that I love.

I prefer to be called an “encourager” but I am finding that there is a vast difference in the two.

Fixer: To repair

Encourager: To inspire or support

The harsh reality is that there are just some things I cannot fix. There are some things I cannot change, no matter how much I desire to do so. There are some things that I am not permitted to fix, and those that I wouldn’t even attempt to fix. Therein lies the battle with the “fixers” and also the source of a heavy heart for those around us.

I am learning that it is much more difficult to be the encourager these days. When I am unable to “fix” things? I have always shifted to encouragement mode. It is important to me for my family and those I love to be happy. If they are not? Then, there just has to be some way to fix it. The more I realize lately? I just can’t. I want to. I long to. Again….. Hello, How may I fix you?

So what do I do? I will continue to encourage as softly as I can, treading lightly and fixing the things I can. I will struggle to reason the how’s and why’s of everyday with the things I will never be able to fix. I will quietly whisper a prayer on your behalf and hope that somehow it will bring you courage for one more day – strength to keep facing your giants.

If some days you find me less than encouraging? Give me a little time and know that I am getting my second wind. If time passes and you see the winds blowing the opposite direction? Be my compass. Sing my song back to me when I can no longer remember all of the words. Sometimes the encourager needs encouraging, and the fixers need fixing too.