I find that words are powerful! They can influence us, they can encourage or discourage us, lead, or misguide us, and overall change our entire environment. Even a name, be it a pet or nickname, can speak into your life. Imagine being called, “Noodle” all your life. Of course, it depends on the person, but if you want to be a professional fitness trainer, I think you might want to let that go, or rebrand the name somehow by maybe creating a recipe book/blog for your clients that highlights gluten free pasta or something. You can call it, “The Healthy Noodle”.
I’m just kidding, but I do want to be a person who uses words that speak into my future in a positive way, because, let’s face it, some words stick. Being called a “princess” or “genius” in grade school can catapult your confidence compared to being called “ugly” or “stupid”. In contrast, being called a “princess” can also mean that you feel entitled, or “genius” can imply that you’re a know-it-all. Sarcasm has invaded all of our lives one way or another, I’m sure. If your called anything long enough it can severely impact your perspective on how you see yourself. The good news is… the words spoken over you do NOT have to be what narrates your life’s story. There’s a saying, “It’s not what you’re called, it’s what you answer to.” Bottom line, it’s up to you accept it or reject it. Don’t you just LOVE freedom?
It may take some time to concentrate a little more on what I say, especially when I’m “passionate” about something. On the other hand, I believe we are aware of what we say. Which leads to another point. Words create an impression. There are certain things I would never say to my grandmother that I would absolutely say to my friends. A lot of it would have to do with our generational and cultural differences. Certain words meant different things in my grandmother’s time. Some words didn’t exist at all in her time actually. Therefore, I have to be mindful of who I am talking to. Yep, it’s called self-control people! Most of us have it, but if we ignore it will disappear.
One of the best strategies that I would use is to imagine that I was the person on the receiving end of one of my “Snappy Comebacks” or “Strong Opinions”. My, “Not sayin’, just sayin’” moments. Don’t get me wrong, opinions are important (Ergo…This Blog!! Wink), but if what I say makes me snap my neck back and say, “Saywhatnow!!”, then I know that I have gone way too far. I know that this way of thinking raises the bar in accountability. I confess that I have come a long way, but I would not consider myself a master of this at ALL, just yet. I’m sure with much prayer and as I consciously continue to do my own checks and balances, and maybe get an opinion or two from people I can trust, eventually I may be able to communicate in a way that won’t cause unnecessary offense. I suggest we challenge ourselves and hold ourselves accountable! Let’s watch what we say, shall we?
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