Don't Give Up!

This morning I met Jessica at Fitness Together for some more personal torture training. I have said it before, and I'll say it again, I absolutely love working out with a personal trainer! She really pushes me and makes me work hard. Though last week I went in and said, "I'm speaking tomorrow, Jessica. I need to be able to walk. Take it easy on my legs today." This past Monday she said (with a knowing laugh), "You aren't speaking this week, are you?" Hmmm, how can I keep my schedule a secret from her???
One of the reasons I like working out with her so much showed itself again today. We were working my arms and the first time through the circuit wasn't too bad. But then we did the whole thing again. Twice.
The second time through I was getting tired and started complaining. But Jessica kept reassuring and encouraging me. "You can do it, Karen. Keep going." And I did.
It was the third time through when she used a new encouraging phrase. I was struggling to lift my arms, feeling ready to quit, (on about my third or fourth rep!) and Jessica said, "Don't give up, Karen!" I soooooo wanted to give up, but Jessica's words helped me press on. One more. Ooonnee mmmmoore. I didn't think I could do another and Jessica could tell. She came up behind me and said, "I'll help you." She put her hands under my elbows and helped me lift those weights, while she repeated, "Don't give up!"
On my own, I would have given up. A long time ago! But with encouragement and help, I kept going and made it through.

I couldn't help but apply this situation to being a mom. How many times am I in the midst of a struggle, perhaps one I have already gone through a time or two (or three, or four...) before. I wonder when it is going to end. I doubt if I'm going to make it through. I begin to believe I simply don't have what it takes to face this situation. And then a friend comes by my side and speaks some word of encouragement to me, or simply gives me a hug and assures me I will make it through.
We need each other to speak those words when we're at our wits' end, feeling like throwing in the towel one more time. Don't give up!
And sometimes we need each other to give that practical help - that lifting of our arms - so we can get through.
I am so thankful for my friends who encourage me to not give up, and who lend me a hand when they can see I need it.

Where are you today? Are you in need of those words?

Don't give up, my friend!

Or perhaps you have seen someone around you (a mom, or otherwise!) to whom you can speak those words and offer that help. We need each other, and we're better together. Let's be lifters!