Things are happening in the garden. There are five kinds of lettuce begging to be eaten. As I crouched with my scissors around the bed fluffy with spinach, red leaf, kale, green leaf and chard I could almost hear them. 

"Pick me! Pick me!"

The weeds had grown as well and I settled myself in for a spell. In years past I felt inept about knowing the difference between wanted and unwanted plants. My hope in becoming a garden apprentice was that I could watch and learn. After an hour of tugging and tossing, the mound of weeds filled a large bucket. 

The woman teaching me glanced at my work. 

"It looks great! The lettuce and onions have much more room now."

My confidence stretched its elbows. Maybe I could do this after all. Her affirmation boosted my spirits. What was easy for her was becoming easier for me. 

There are ways to encourage the people we live with. Last week John and I were tackling a painting project, and every time he reassured me that I was doing it right it deepened my commitment to keep trying. 

I suppose most of us have an unquenchable need for a personal cheerleader.