Discouragement to Encouragement

People are like  plants in many ways.  Without adequate water, a plant will begin to wither and wilt.  Similarly, people need encouragement.  Without it, they lose energy, become withdrawn and in some cases even begin to entertain suicidal thoughts.  My role as counsellor is akin to  any gardener's role.  I need to carefully monitor the plants in my garden.  Those that need encouragement will receive as much as I can provide.  As any gardener knows, water cannot just be dumped on a plant.  It must be artfully applied in just the right way at the right time and in appropriate circumstances.  Encouraging others is a lot like that.  When it is done right the reward is to watch the plant get stronger and brighten up.  Counsellors who successfully encourage their clients are similarly rewarded.  It's a beautiful thing.