A few simple words of encouragement

I read an inspiring article about a dad who took his family camping at Yosemite National Park, and when he returned to his car, he found this handwritten note tucked under the windshield wiper that made his day.

The message, written by a fellow camper, read:

“Bro, I camped in the spot behind you last night.

Let me just say, you are killing it as a dad. First off, I watched your wife guide you in as you backed up your trailer and nailed it on the first try without any yelling.

Then your kids unloaded from the truck and were mild-mannered and well-behaved. You told stories around the campfire, and I had the pleasure of listening to the sounds of giggles and laughter.

From one dad to another, you are killing it. Keep it up.”

The dad posted the note along with his response to his kind fellow camper on Reddit Yosemite, and it quickly went viral:

“To the man who left this thoughtful note on my windshield at Lower Pines Campground this weekend, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Your acknowledgment of my efforts to be a good father means a great deal to me.”

In a world where criticism and cynicism often drown out kindness, this little moment at Yosemite struck a chord with me. It’s proof that encouragement doesn’t have to be some grand gesture, it can be as simple as a few kind words.