THE POWER OF WORDS

Words are the bullets used in the war for mens’ minds, and they are fired from every weapon available in the storehouse of propaganda. The right words can assist one to have courage in a dangerous situation.

Death and life are in the power of words. Like fire, one’s words have the potential to cause great harm. How can we use the ability to communicate our thoughts and feelings to build up and not tear down others? There are three aspects: when, what and how to speak.

As we master a language, our thinking becomes inseparably linked with words, so, it is impossible to formulate thoughts without using words. Speech is a part of our daily life, but maintaining silence when others speak can be a mark of respect. Keeping quiet about a confidential matter is proof of discretion, and restraining one’s words when provoked, is the course of wisdom.

Choosing a suitable time to speak makes our words more effective and appealing. Words have the power to hurt as well as to heal. Remarks intended to belittle others can hurt. Humour adds spice, but trying to evoke laughter by resorting to cutting sarcastic quips can be agonizing.

Choice of appropriate words begins in the heart. One’s speech usually reflects how one truly feels about others. Selecting proper words also involves mental effort and good judgement. We can ask ourselves, ‘will these words really convey what I want to say? What effect will my words have on the listener?’

Speaking vaguely can be confusing and misleading. On the other hand, trying to be crisp and clear may make one sound blunt or tactless. Being polite and courteous makes one’s words more persuasive.

Speaking with tact can be a challenge when the listener is someone we know very well. One might feel at liberty to be very frank or harsh. If someone offends, does resentment goad or annoy you into verbal warfare? And if we offend someone, do we avoid that person and hope that time and a short memory will cover over the problem? Making peace brings positive results and contributes to well-being.

Foul words, as well as slang terms, are becoming increasingly common. Some persons may think that using curse and obscene words make their speech emphatic. But rough and coarse language is offensive and irritating. One, who indulges in careless speech habits in everyday conversations, reflects a feeble mentality. Such a person is not expected to speak well on special occasions.

When the meaning of a word is hidden, one can think of it as a kernel encased in a shell. We break the shell, and find that the nut is delicious and nutritious. Similarly, words are rewarding when one cracks the mystery of its meaning. Learning a new word excites imagination. Every new word lights up the intellect in some area never quite reached before.

“Mental laziness and limited vocabulary are usually bed fellows in the same brain.” This emphasises that words add colour, life and greater satisfaction to one’s work.

Disappointments and personal failings have a tendency to produce negative thinking. How much appreciated then, is the word of commendation whenever it can be given! Words can also be lifegiving that can rebuild the depressed person’s self esteem, ‘brick by brick’ strengthening and reviving the individual. Positive and stimulating words inspire the hearer to act in harmony with them.

Some of the words of the greatest minds in history are preserved and recorded. They are solidified in writing or print. We can pause as we read. We can turn back, ponder and draw conclusions from what they tell, learn a lesson and stretch our mental abilities in the process.

A picture may be worth a thousand words, but sometimes just one or two words can paint a picture. Words have a “personality.” They can pierce like a sword or can be pleasant as a honey comb, bringing friends and family closer to each other.

Selecting the right word prevents one from being needlessly wordy. It helps in getting to the point and makes speech refreshing. Simplicity of words is a key to understanding and a great aid to memory. Clear, simple words can delight and motivate.

The well-chosen word, spoken at the right time, is a work of art in the same way as a beautiful ornament of silver and gold would be. So, it is the right word, not only at the right time, but also to the right person, that counts!

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

Rekha Kumar The writer is a work-life balance and leadership skills facilitator [email protected]