Encouragement and Appreciation   Sometimes I feel guilty when I hear that other pastors feel unappreciated, or that words of encouragement are very few and far between for them.   Notice I said I feel guilty, not “judgy.”  I believe them when they say they feel that way, and I feel sorry for them.  It is unacceptable, but I don’t know where to place the blame.  So I can’t be judgmental about it. I mean, is the congregation truly uncaring?  Or, is that their way of saying ministry has been tough?—and believe me, it is tough for every pastor!  Or, does it mean that they carry the criticism closer to the heart and it’s harder to remember the encouragement?—you know, the old “it takes 10 compliments to make up for 1 complaint” saying. It’s impossible for me to know the answers to those questions about their situation.  So when I read it or hear it, I feel sorry for them, and I feel a bit guilty.  You see, I have  always  felt supported, encouraged, and appreciated.  Even when ministry has