Sources of Encouragement

Thanks a Million!

Last week I was feeling pretty down. I had a few moments where I felt like giving up. I didn’t give up, but I was honest about the way I felt. Many of you extended words of encouragement, and even assistance, which really helped pull me out of the valley, and that’s what this post is about.

Those Who’ve Gone Before

I’ve been blessed to know so many people working in this field, people who do “get it”. The CocoaHeads group and the iPhone studio alumni make up a large network of supportive programmers who help each other out. I’d like to specifically give a shout out to Chris, Jeff, Matt, Daniel, Adam, Guy, Hermano, Esther, Jake, and everyone!

I’m also fortunate that there are SO MANY hard working programmers that have been generous enough to post their work online. I’ve learned a lot by reading forums, blogs, and tutorials that I find.

I’ve also come across some full open source apps, that I can’t wait to download and deconstruct!

The “Body” of Christ

In addition to the developer community, God has given me a strong Christian community to help me through. I don’t know about you, but I believe in God. Ever since I trusted Jesus Christ to save me from myself and be the Lord of my life I’ve been a part of His family, a.k.a. His Church.  God has really encouraged me through His Church this week:

• I met a nice couple one Sunday last month, and when I mentioned the iPhone studio I was going to they not only said they would pray for me, they did, right there on the spot. Very encouraging.
• Other Christian friends from church and work have shown interest and support for what I’m working on.
• I also had the pleasure of meeting two Christians at the iPhone studio. Both were sitting right with me in the front row!  They’ve encouraged me to keep going as well.
• And of course my family and close friends, many of whom are Christian, have been there all the way!

The fact that I have such a support system could be taken as evidence that God wants me to succeed at this because He has provided what I need to succeed. I feel very encouraged. Thanks to everyone. I hope that I can help and encourage you on your journey too!