Everyone’s heard the adage, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” Parents teach it to small children who are being taunted or teased as a way of downplaying hurtful words. The idea (I think) is that if the taunter thinks his/her hurtful words have no effect, maybe they’ll stop. At least, that’s my best guess. However, the truth of the matter is that NOTHING hurts more than words. Wounds made with sticks, stones, fists, or knives will eventually heal. Yet the wounds inflicted by hurtful words can fester and grow for decades. I still recall words spoken more than a half of a century ago that are still causing pain.
As a reader and a writer, I’ve come to appreciate the power of words. What’s a book, but a combination of words strung together to tell a story. The story can be real; a biography, memoire, or a factual tale. Or, the words can be pure fiction recounting the adventures of vampires, werewolves, dragons or Hobbits. Regardless of whether recounting a real tale, or the creative constructs of an active mind, the words make the difference. Have you ever read a book that made you cry? Laugh out loud? Or, toss a book across the room in anger? Okay, maybe that last one is just me.
I’d like to say that all of my words have been good, healing words meant to edify rather than tear down, but I’d be lying. I’ve shredded more than my fair share with words both spoken and written. However, I shall endeavor to use my words differently moving forward. As we approach this holiday season, I hope that we can surround ourselves in words of comfort, peace, and love. Be kind to each other and most of all, be kind to yourself.
Happy Holidays!