“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me.” Never did agree with this saying. Words are very powerful. I think we can all agree on that, no? Words, when said in anger, can wound very deeply. Words, when said in anger, can not be taken back. Ever. You can not un-ring a bell. Once the words are said, you can apologize and you might be forgiven, but you should know that those words could very well stay with someone forever. I know this to be true. I also know that often it can change you. Make you feel like less. You bury the words, put them out of your mind and you move on, but they’re still there, waiting to creep back out when you least expect it. Be careful with your words. Always. Make sure the damage they may do to someone is something you can live with.

On the other hand, words, when said in love or kindness, can be just as powerful. “I love you”. Three very powerful words when said together. Hopefully you don’t say them if you don’t mean it. Saying something nice or kind to someone can change their whole day. I love to compliment people, especially people I don’t know, on something they are wearing, their hair, their handbag maybe. Why not? If I like something, why not say it and maybe make someone else smile? They could really need it at that moment. I know when somebody says something nice to me, it definitely makes me smile. I recently had my second performance review at my new job because I’m on probation. My boss said such wonderful things about me. I was a little uncomfortable at first, but boy, did that make me feel great. For someone–like me–whose confidence has taken a blow or two in recent years, those words made a difference.

Words have power. Do your best to be aware of your words BEFORE you say them. Hopefully you can catch yourself before saying something hurtful or maybe, just maybe, you might make someone’s day. Thanks….

Candidly,

Donna