Let us be a blessing to someone. Our kind smile or pat on the back just might pull someone back from the edge. Let us never lose an opportunity to bring sunshine into the lives of those who look up to our encouragement, to those who need us at their side.  Here are few encouraging words that could make a huge difference in someone’s life.

Many of us have parents, grandparents, or other loved ones who are suffering from any of the long-term troubles that occur naturally in old age or due to some other circumstances. We can give them love and support in many ways.

Empathize - Put ourselves in their place. We may think we have problems, but if we stop to think about what it might be like to be their age or situation, that would probably give us a much greater appreciation for what some people go through.

Many no longer have the physical capacity nor ability to do some things they've always done, which can be discouraging and lead to feelings of uselessness. Depending on their circumstances, they may worry about what will happen if their condition worsens. Our loving understanding and sympathy go a long way in easing those hardships and alleviating those fears.

Take an interest - Some may not be as strong or sharp as they once were, but the intangibles that matter most, those personal qualities that make them the unique people they are, have not diminished. In fact, it is often in the later years that qualities such as love, thoughtfulness, loyalty, humility, humor, optimism, and wisdom come to full fruition. That makes some people the most fascinating persons in the world.  So let's take the time to unearth their latent treasures, and we will be surprised at what we will find. They may even surprise themselves.

Show love and appreciation - Sometimes simply knowing that we are loved can make all the difference in how we view and deal with our present circumstances. Knowing that they are appreciated for past efforts can also help some people put their lives in perspective and counter feelings of regret over failures and shortcomings. Let us show love and appreciation while we can.

Help them stay active - Numerous studies have shown that physical activity slows the aging process, which results in both prolonged life and improved quality of life. Conversely, a sedentary lifestyle increases the chances of age-related disease and premature death. Even a short walk in the fresh air is beneficial.  By helping some people stay active, we will be investing in our own future at the same time.

Pray for them - It has been said that praying for others is not the least we can do for them, but the most. Prayer moves the heart and hand of God to take action according to our requests. When we pray for someone, God may give us some ideas as to how we can help alleviate someone's suffering—perhaps a visit or an afternoon out together, or a phone call, email, or card.

Greater Love - Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends" (John 15:13). Greater love means taking the initiative to reach out; to feel what the other person is feeling; to dry their tears; to bear their burdens; to feel their afflictions; to minister to those who are sick and nurse them back to health; to listen with a loving, open ear to those who need to pour out; to be a caring and understanding friend to those who need a friend; to pray for those in need; to let their heartaches be our heartaches; to make their hopes and dreams our hopes and dreams.

It is in loving that we are being loved; it is in sharing that we receive. Let's remember what The Dalai Lama said: "If you want others to be happy, give compassion; if you want to be happy, practice compassion.

Somewhere there is someone who dreams of your smile, who finds in your presence that life is worthwhile. So when you are lonely, remember it's true, that somebody somewhere is thinking of you.- Unknown