I read the following excerpt on Everyday Cheapskate (an email subscription service) today, and felt that I should share it..
There's a difference between authority and responsibility. Authority
usually refers to your power over people. People who crave authority
usually lose it. Responsibility usually refers to your pledge to
people. Those willing to assume responsibility usually get it. Most
people crave authority and avoid responsibility. You've got a great
sense of responsibility. I applaud it. I admire it. Don't ever lose it.
A little encouragement goes a long way. Maybe it's only a few words
or a small act of kindness, but that small effort can really encourage
another person. It might not seem like much to you, but it can be
meaningful to that other person. Whenever you encourage others, you are
showing that you have care and concern for them. Encouragement is
something that's hard to give away because it always comes back to
bless you.