Say More By Saying Less

In a rustic but quaint Montana restaurant, I saw a sign under a mounted large-mouth bass. It read: “If I had kept my mouth shut I wouldn’t be here.”

Sometimes our biggest issues arise because of the words we choose to speak.

What we say is important. Think of a relationship in which you want to build a bridge. It may be a bridge to begin a relationship or to bring a relationship back together. It might be a bridge to strengthen a relationship that’s already good. It might be a relationship with a husband, wife, kids, co-worker or with a friend. Our words are the materials we use to build those bridges. Our words have the power to strengthen or shatter our relationships. King Solomon, author of most of the Old Testament book of Proverbs, wrote often about the power of words. He said, “Words kill, words give life; they’re either poison or fruit—you choose.” Proverbs 18:21 (MSG)

Words

Words are powerful.

Words are powerful. Although many people have heard “sticks and stones may break our bones but words will never hurt us,” those who have suffered from verbal abuse know that words do hurt and can be as damaging as physical blows are to the body. Words can break a child’s heart; words can break a husband’s dreams and shatter a wife’s love. The good news is words can build a bridge. Do you realize the power that you have to make a difference in people’s lives with a few kind words? You can build a bridge of encouragement into somebody’s life with the simple encouragement, “Good job!” You can build a bridge of healing into somebody’s life with the simple words, “I’m sorry. Will you forgive me?” You can build a bridge of hope for the future or energy for today with the words, “I love you.”

Hal Donaldson’s new book, Your Next 24 Hours, speaks to the value of kindness. On page 72 he focuses on kindness expressed in our words. “Don’t underestimate the power of words spoken in love and kindness. The kindness inside you has the power to transform lives.” Build some bridges today with your words. Empower your words by replacing negativity with kindness.