Power of Language

Words have power.

Spoken or written, it makes no difference.  The right words, arranged in the right way, delivered at the right time can begin a ripple the swells to a riptide.   Don't believe me; think about the last book you read that really spoke to you.  In the hands of a gifted writer we can experience suspense and horror (Stephen King) or humor and love. 

The artful use of language the ability to inspire such strong emotions in both the creator and audience it is wise to respect its natural force.  It's because of this power that we tend to fear words and how they are used.  

Writing takes guts.

Ask anyone who's ever written a piece that they care about, and if they're honest with you a little part of them self went into that composition.  Once words emerge from our brain, either as speech or written copy, the corresponding thoughts are out there.  Permanently in the public domain to be evaluated, judged, and criticized -- all experiences that most people avoid.  

The year that my marriage started to unravel my writing took a turn to abstraction.  What little autobiographical writing I produced dried up, perhaps for fear that if it is written so it shall be done.  I became hyper-focused on the few positive moments and messages of hope.  All this, to no avail as the end result did not spare any pain.  The words were not at fault, however, despite how much I feared them. 

For all the damage that words can do, there is equal opportunity for words to usher in kindness, healing and love.  The scene from V for Vendetta comes to my mind, when Evey finds the note scribbled on the pieces of toilet paper from the former resident of her cell, Valarie.  At her breaking point simple words of truth and kindness are enough to set Evey free.  Inspired by those words she finds the strength to face her fears.

Power can be used for good or ill.  

As writers, readers, and communicators let’s all take a moment to think about the words that we use, misuse, and abuse on a regular basis.  We’re all guilty of being sloppy with words, “If you do that again I’m going to kick your….”  Seriously, how many of us have followed through with that threat.   Sometimes, however, it’s the words that we don’t say that hurt the most.  A few words of encouragement (even scribbled on a piece of toilet paper) may be what someone needs at that moment in time.  You never know. 

"Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions; they become habits. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny."—    Lao-Tze