"I think we delight to praise what we enjoy because the praise not merely expresses but completes the enjoyment; it is its appointed consummation.”
–Reflections on the Psalms - CS Lewis

I've been thinking about encouragement as it relates to the arts this week.  I sing.  I love to sing.  I went to school as a music major and used to sing in public, but haven't in a while.  On Sunday, the person sitting in front of me  commented on my singing and mentioned how it blessed Him during his time of worship.

 At the literary open mic I go to, we always clap for each other.  It's part of the whole experience...sharing, listening, encouraging.  This is of course, what we all take part in at concerts, sporting events, conventions, etc; we participate through praise and encouragement.  

 Sometimes when I have the opportunity to share praise with someone who I admire or respect, I clam up.  I don't want to even try to put my admiration into words because I fear that my words will pale in comparison with my appreciation.  I think instead, I need to view this praise and encouragement as another part of the whole experience.  It's an essential and "appointed consummation" of the enjoyment of the arts.

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