The Power of Words

Do you remember the rhyme from childhood? "Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me." I wish that was true. I remember many words spoken to me when I was a child that hurt even today, decades later. I remember other words that brought joy.

"Bad" words don't just mean curse words. Looking at something a child drew and then saying, "So and so does a much better job of that" is going to haunt that child forever. If the child had artistic talent, it may be enough to make them turn from art. There would be no confidence that he or she could actually follow through.

Bullies use "bad" words. Taunting weaker children is one sign of a bully. Calling other children "four eyes" and "string bean" are bad enough, but they can take it several steps further. Some children are bullied to the point of suicide…and it's all done by words.

Words aren't always bad, however. Sincere compliments can brighten anyone's day. They may even be just what's needed to inspire us to greater achievements. "Thank you" may seem trite, but when it's meant, it makes us feel good.

The words we use have a tendency to come back to us from other people. If you taunt someone, be prepared to be taunted. It may not be by the person you taunted. The people around you have heard you and your attitude and you become fair game.

The same holds true with "good" words. If you compliment someone and mean it, people will see you in a better light. This often gives rise to further compliments, this time aimed at you. Don't feel bad if it takes a while, but believe me, it will happen.

You can start a circle with both types of words. As I've said, wars have been started over words. School fights, bar room brawls and other negative actions are usually a direct result of something someone said. The end result is a lot of physical and emotional pain, and it could be avoided.

Positive circles are better. Using words to improve moods, soothe over hurt feelings and so forth makes others want to do the same thing. Unfortunately, it's not easy to be the peacemaker.

The best thing we can do is try to bridle our tongue. Think before we speak and wait until we're calm before reacting. It is far harder to do than it is to write, but the world would be a better place if it were done.