You remember the sing-song saying: “Sticks and stones will break my bones but names will never hurt me!” with a little “nah nah nah nah nah” tacked on the end.
Well sticks and rocks and stones and whatever else we throw can break bones. The truth is that words can break a spirit.
If we could see energy and if we could see our word arrows this statement would make sense. Our words can be loving and uplifting. Our words can be encased in porcupine quills or arrows.
When words are encased in these destructive implements, it tears the spirit of the person receiving them. If you could see the word arrow flying out of your mouth, striking a person in her chest and she started to bleed, you will learn to stop using word arrows.
But we don’t see energy. If we are angry, out go the f-in’ word arrows or word bombs without any thought to what it might be like to be on the receiving end. That doesn’t take us off the hook.
You might know what it is like being on the receiving end of word arrows and crush your spirit. And you might feel justified in returning the lob. “You hurt me, I hurt you back.” Or “She hurt me, I’ll hurt you back.”
Rethink that strategy. Ever hear of karma. What we put out will come back to us.
Word arrows can be sharp because of the words that are used like “your an idiot.” Or they can be sharp do to the tone of voice. Think of the different tone of voice ways to say “your so smart.”
When we have anger and frustration inside of us, words can be said with more punch than we intended.
If you find that you are angry or upset or resentful, go take care of yourself. Once the anger and resentment are gone, your words will be different.
I would like you to listen to people speaking to each other. Listen for the content and also the tone of voice which is used. What is the meaning they seem to convey? Is it supportive or demoralizing?
Now listen to yourself in conversation. You want to be aware of the actual content, what you meant and tone of voice. If what you said isn’t exactly what you meant, you may want to try again. Be very aware that your tone of voice as well a volume carries power. Use it wisely.
Use your voice and words as uplifting to others as you would like to be supported and uplifted.
There is too much verbal abuse going on today. It has many forms, bullying be one, snipping being another. No one likes to be the recipient. Lets clean up our act and be good examples for others.