Encourage Yourself

Encourage Yourself - Donald Lawrence/The Tri-City Singers

I've been playing this song over and over and over and over and over again this past week. And I'm really feeling it; the way the track sort of bounces; the warm, steady sound of the percussion; and how it has just the right amount of swing.

At the same time, I love the lead vocalist's voice, especially because it contrasts so beautifully with the song's instrumentation.

She starts off pacing herself -- ever so carefully -- only to break out into a raw, unadulterated display of...well...praise.

The background singers also make this track -- for the way they lend their soft voices to the hook refreshes my spirit.

More importantly, I appreciate the song's simple message.

"Encourage yourself."

If you missed church on Sunday, maybe this song will make up for your absence.

If you're looking for a job this week, maybe this song will motivate you in your pursuit.

If you haven't been feeling well lately, maybe this song will bring some healing to your body.

If you've been trying to work some things out in a relationship gone awry, maybe this song can also inspire some hope.

The economy may be down, but thank God, you're still above ground.

You may not know what you want to do, but you at least you know who you are.

Your job may be really boring, but at least you're employed.

Classes may be tough, but consider the millions of others who wish they had your opportunity.

You owe it to them and yourself to be encouraged.

Whether you're feeling down and out or high and mighty, I see no harm in encouraging yourself.