“WORDS, MATTER”
By Jane Dividio-Gagliardo
As our country welcomes in a new Administration or not, the situations that have unfolded these last few months and the “Words” spoken, have had a not so positive impact on our nation. I’m not looking for a political argument nor do I intend on sharing my political views. My point is simple and to the point… “Words Matter.” Not only what we say, but how they are perceived by both the reader and listener are significant to the outcome. How many times in your own life have you said something and someone took it completely out of context or didn’t understand exactly what you meant? There have been many studies performed concerning the powerful impact of words.
How our brain processes words and then stores them in our subconscious is very interesting. Perception does reveal brain differences. It’s not based on gender. It’s based on how each human being sorts, compiles and processes words. For example, I read an article and it makes me cry, the next person who reads it may find it interesting but not emotional enough to bring tears to their eyes. Again, brain differences and changes in each person as we age are different. The study also went on to say that how we were raised, taught, and even the people we choose as friends have had a significant impact on how we perceive the words we read or hear. For me. I’m a cry baby, Lol. I’ll read or watch something and it can just take me to my knees and the tears start flowing, Lol.
I find that words encourage me and make me stronger. But I also realize that my own words can be crippling as well. In the moment, that is not my intent. But afterwards I sometimes feel terrible and very sorry for not having chosen my words more carefully. What about you? Have you ever had a situation where the words you spoke caused things to escalate… then boom? Once said, there’s no taking them back. Right? Words can influence our perception of reality. When our children are babies we can’t wait for them to speak. Then they become teenagers and oh if only they would be silent like when they were babies, Lol.
Whether we are teens, young adults or seasoned members of the human family, it is important to choose our words wisely. I had a boss who would tell me “When you’re mad or angry” write everything down on paper and burn it. Then sit down and write, without emotion, so the point is made clearly and constructively. So, make your “Words Matter.” Make them impactful, but not cruel, direct but not destructive. Use them to sooth, not irritate, uplift rather than tear down. And always keep in mind that a wise person chooses their words wisely.
In closing I leave you with this quote: “Words are a big thing, that can make a big difference to the person you say them to.” (Unknown) Stay Safe. Stay Strong. Stay Fearless.
