Yesterday I watched a father spend over an hour trying to teach his young daughter to ride a bike. She was initially very frightened and hesitant, but he consistently spoke gently to her and was supportive of her despite a series of failed attempts.Never criticizing her reluctance he kept encouraging her, and at one point it appeared that she was ready to quit. He embraced her and said”The next one will be the one Janie.”She on the brink of tears drew strength from his unwavering faith in her and once more tried. It appeared that this attempt would also fail as he steadied her wobbly ride, but then it happened she began to feel her stride and at one point he let go and off she went. The smile on her face as she came back would light the city of New York. We all need to give and receive encouragement at every age