The Weight of Words.
We held on to her every word and watched with pride, intrigued, as she captured our nation; a brilliant mind, spitting pearls of wisdom that registered for souls past and generations to come. She stood like a beacon in yellow and shone brightly for a people on a pedestal only a few had ever graced. What she delivered were words. What we received was an inspiration.
As a bearer, be sure that you examine the weight of the words you speak; as a receiver, I pray you strive to discern true meaning. I admit to a keen sensitivity because, for me, they hold value. I use words to express and define my being, so I cannot understate the associated significance. I estimate the weight of words and understand their power. I believe the tongue can inflict wounds and lacerate souls, just as can the bullet or the sword. The bearer who delivers with reckless abandon launches piercing arrows that may distort a soul.
I am not unaware of the role of words in our interactions, as they are an essential medium through which we connect. Words aren’t just a means to communicate; they stand as markers for feelings, thoughts, expressions, impressions, and perceptions; they carry weight. A bearer takes the responsibility of assessing the significance of a choice of words. By the time they reach the receiver, it might be too late. They would have already been uttered, immediately registered, and often cannot be retracted.
I am aware some will argue that a pause to examine the weight of words diminishes to a degree the authenticity of our interactions. So please feel free to have spontaneous conversations or frivolous uninhibited discourse, do that but do it with an intent to uplift, or at the very least leave another unchanged. As our discussions shift and when emotions are elevated or in disharmony, we must be mindful. Sometimes underneath a layer of the thickest skin lies the most loving heart. It can be a mighty shame to pierce it or shatter its frame.
None of us can be perfect or impervious to mistakes; we can only try. I guess that’s my plea. Try. When you speak, inspire. Be critical and honest as you engage but do so with compassion. Whenever you become aware that you may have cut into the depths of a soul with hurtful words or contempt, find ways to apologize. Forgiveness often comes with penance, not before.
Remember, words can be lethal, so arm yourself with an arsenal that guides your tongue to speak positivity. To uplift and to share hope. We have seen how words can ignite embers of hate that turn into flames of evil. A slew of vile utterances has sown seeds of division that may take us decades to unravel. Words do have power. Do not underestimate that.
Therefore, I urge you to consider the words you use, if only for a moment, and especially in times of discord. Words can uplift a person, a people, a nation, and equally so they can slay a spirit, reduce us to shambles and chaos, shatter confidence, and can tear us apart. Use them wisely. Do your best to leave every place, every soul better than you found it.
