Communication Part 2

After your day with friends and family, did you notice any tension in the air? Did you respond with total unconditional love? Have you become aware of the impact your words have on yourself and others? Notice feelings you create within yourself with the words you use and recognize that what you say to others can impact them for a lifetime.

Can you recall the words significant people in your life have said to you — possibly your father, mother, brother, sister, teacher, mentor, manager, friend or spouse? Even if you don’t recall the person who said those words, nonetheless, the words are still with you! Has anyone every used words in an attempt to put you down or make you feel inferior? How were those words expressed and how did you feel in response to them? What words were used by someone who loves you? What did he or she say and what feelings were created in you by those words? Relax and allow whatever comes up to emerge. Write it down. Did you come up with any comments or statements made to you, perhaps even years ago? If you did, then you appreciate the power of words, their impact on you and how long they’ve stayed with you.

My third-grade teacher used to say, “Bill, never talk in front of people because they’ll laugh at you.” As a young boy, I slurred my Ss and Ts and needed to be taught how to speak. The problem, though, was that I interpreted her statement to mean “Bill, shut up! Don’t talk to people. They’ll only laugh at you.” The impact of those words caused me to remain quiet and shy for five years!

Begin to use words that empower others as well as yourself….