“Babe, you handled that so well.  You know just how to smooth the waters.”

“Our boys love and respect you.  You are a good father.”

“The car looks brand new.  You take such care of it.”

Cheerleaders cheer.  Ra Ra Ra!  Go husband!  You… fixed the leak!  Lost 10 pounds!  Nailed the presentation!

Sometimes, cheerleaders lose a husband and lose the Ra.  They might feel cheerless, raless.   When purpose evades them.   When identity escapes them.  When service doesn’t need them.   Then what.

Somehow, cheerleaders keep cheering.  Everyone needs encouragement.  Friends.  Bears.  Littlebears.

“You are so thoughtful to let your sister have a turn.  You did that on your own.”

“Wow.  You can really run.  Those new shoes are fast!”

Cheerleaders find Ra when they can’t find purpose.  They can Ra at least.  They can “you-go!” from the sidelines, from the bleachers, from the phone and through prayer.  They can whoop and whirl and whistle.  They can word someone, anyone, to feel wonderful.

Cheerleaders cheer.  That’s something.