We, as people, have been given an extraordinary power that most people don't even know they possess. We all have the power to affect others in profound ways using only words. How we choose to use or abuse this power, well....that's what I want to talk about.
Have you ever said something mean and hurtful to someone, knowing full well that your words would sting? I have, many times. We all know the buttons to push, the sensitive topics, the painful places deep within. Some people choose to expose and exasperate those weaknesses for their own negative purposes. Whether that's to control someone or to make them hurt like you hurt, either way....it's wrong. Words do hurt. They are powerful things. They can sink in and stay there for a lifetime. They can control you. They can take the beautiful and make them feel ugly. The can take the confident and make them feel inadequate. They can and do change people. Some words can be so damaging that years and years down the road they still affect you, almost control you. That's powerful stuff.
We also have the ability to use this power for good. Have you ever had a bad day and you're feeling down only to have someone be kind to you and all is well? A smile goes a long way. It transcends generations and languages. It has the ability to comfort and encourage. It's also contagious. When we find the weakness in others, we should use our power to help them overcome their challenges, not bring them down.
We have the power to actually change people. Let me say that again, we can change people. I know there are people I've come across who have changed me, both for the good and for the not so good. Words have come my way that have raised me to new levels and words that have left me in dark places and deep holes. I choose to raise people up, to smile at a stranger, to encourage a child. I will not use my power for anything negative or selfish. I will choose my words wisely. I've seen the damaging effects first hand and I don't want to negatively impact anyone. So, the next time you speak, thing about what you are saying. How you are changing someone. I hope it’s a positive change.
