Words

Words are important threads in the fabric of our lives. I’ve heard the expression, “a picture is worth a thousand words.” True at times, but we comprehend that picture in terms of words. We think in words that attach themselves to visual concepts. The curriculum I used to teach my children to read and write (I home schooled them) used pictures to help the children connect the concept with the word. Some words are very important. Some words are insignificant. How we use words is very important. We put letters together to form words. we put words together to express ideas. And how we put those words together can convey truth or a lie.

Writers and speakers have an important stewardship of words. They can build up or tear down. They can help or hurt. They can use words to spread the truth or to spread lies.

When I think of all the useless words I’ve used, of how often I say something carelessly or on purpose to hurt someone else, I am ashamed. Social media gives a platform to express thoughts and ideas immediately — and carelessly. Many of us would benefit from editing and proofreading our posts, not just for grammar and spelling, but for content, before we publish. Once a word is public, it can’t really be taken back.

I pray that my words will be like “apples of gold in pitchers of silver,” to help, encourage, and build up–and always the truth.