May 27, 2024
It would be a wonderful world if we all followed the rule of saying something good or not saying anything at all. Just imagine how pleasant our homes, schools, jobs, and communities would be.
Our words are powerful containers that affect the atmosphere we live in. Many people fail to realize how their words affect them and those around them. The story below perfectly illustrates this point.
An older man spread rumors that his young neighbor was a thief. As a result, the young man was arrested, and his reputation was tarnished. Days later, the young man was proven innocent and sued the older man for wrongly accusing him. In court, the older man tried to defend himself by saying that they were just comments and were not meant to harm anyone. But before passing a sentence, the judge told the older man to write everything he had said about the young man on paper, cut them up, and throw them out on the way home. The judge told him to return the next day to hear the sentence.
The next day, the judge told the older man that before receiving the sentence, he had to go out and gather all the pieces of paper he had thrown out the day before. The old man replied, "I can't do that! The wind spread them, and I won't know where to find them." The judge replied, "Just like comments may destroy a person's honor to such an extent that it can't be fixed, you can't take back the words you said. Don't say anything if you can't speak well of someone."
Let's be masters of our mouths by following a simple rule to guide our conversations: Say it if it is good, uplifting, wholesome, and pleasant. But if it is evil, negative, critical, and complaining, keep it to yourself. Remember, your words have the power to shape your relationships and your environment.
Intentionally Own It: Before speaking, ask yourself if what you are about to say is true, necessary, helpful, kind, or inspiring. Choose to be guided by discipline and make every effort to do and say what’s honorable and right. Today will never come again. Be a blessing. Be a friend. Encourage someone. Take time to care. Let your words add value!