By Your Words…

“Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.” (Proverbs 16:24)

As children, many of us repeated the adage “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” Although I understand that the sentiment is intended to teach children not to be overly sensitive to the taunts of schoolyard bullies, it couldn’t be further from the truth! Careless or malicious words can and do hurt. Likewise, loving, encouraging words can and do heal.

By our words, we can tear ourselves and one another down, or we can build ourselves and one another up.  The words that we think, speak, and hear are embedded in our subconscious minds and eventually take tangible form in our lives. They affect our feelings, attitudes, relationships, and even the health of our physical bodies. Think for a moment about your own response to harsh criticism. Your muscles probably tense up, your pulse rate may increase, and you may experience a rush of blood to your head. If you accept the criticism as true, it may compromise your self-esteem and subsequently the way you walk, talk, and behave. Now think about your response to praise. It’s all positive, right? You may relax, smile, and carry yourself a little more confidently. You probably experience sincere gratitude for the boost. In both cases, the feeling lingers long after the words have faded away.

Our words have the power to curse and the power to bless. If you want to be a channel for good in the world, begin by speaking words of life and affirmation to and about everything in your life, including yourself. Rather than fixating on what is wrong, make it your business to acknowledge what is right. Let your words be freely given gifts, and pay close attention to their effects.

In Peace and Love,

Tawnicia