There’s a saying “If you have nothing good to say, don’t say anything at all.” Whoever said this is a person of great wisdom, and most probably was a victim or highly exposed to verbal abuse and witnessed how it can deeply affect a person.
The ability to speak is one of the gifts most people take for granted. The use of words is often carelessly thrown out, without giving much thought on the impact it can have on the recipient. But words, whether said verbally or written down, are so powerful it can send one falling or flying.
Words of praise feed the soul, while words of criticism peel it leaving one feeling weak and vulnerable. Throw a little more punches and it can leave one lying on the ground, with low chances of rising up to recover from the blow.
“Sticks and stones can break my bones but words can never hurt me.” This is the battle cry of those that receive sharp words. When really they know that physical injuries are comparatively easier to heal as compared to and damaged spirits and bleeding souls. Wounds and scars not seen by the naked eyes are embedded in a person and can define their character.
Words are sharper than a Japanese warrior’s samurai. It can cut a soul so deep, and can scar society. What’s worse is the long-term damage are unseen, and can therefore catch every unawares.
A damaged spirit leaves one handicapped from believing, dreaming, living. These souls feel inadequate to have more than what they currently have. They lose their faith in their self that they can rise above the challenges and enjoy life. They have given up on happiness even before the game is over.
These are the makings of walking zombies, those that live life without sparkles in their eyes or gusto in their actions. Their lack of life hampers growth and potential achievements and contribution to society. They could have done more, but internal struggles have limited them from further productivity. The government will then wonder what’s happening to their economy and what’s causing low outputs.
Other bleeding souls turn out dangerous, as their fighting spirit to rise up is driven by hatred and revenge from those that harmed their will. As a by-product, they become twisted personalities in society, testing the strength in character of humankind the same way theirs were tested.
The worse of criminals and twisted minds are driven not by hunger or dire need to survive. It’s by those that are desperate for personal assurance, social acceptance, and emotional connection. Why they feel this need can be driven by the constant verbal abuse they have received in different instances in their life.
There is merit in watching ones words and keeping ones thoughts in check before verbalizing. Before speaking, it’s always better to choose ones language and delivery. Weigh the possible effect it can have on the recipient, as one can never tell how badly it can cut, and the ripple effect it can cause on society. Consider it as a personal responsibility, a contribution to the world in achieving peace on earth and to all mankind.
