Words are powerful. Harsh remarks can cause a destructive chain reaction, like lighting a match in the forest during a drought. Kind comments, on the other hand, feel like a light summer rain bringing relief from the heat of the day.
We can know our words are refreshing and seasoned with grace when:
- Our tone and manner reflect the way we want others to speak to us. The behavior of others should not determine whether we speak kindly to them. If we want people to talk to us gently, we should consistently present positive body language and speak with a gentle voice.
- What we say about others is similar to what we would want said of us. We all need to have our strengths emphasized by friends and family so we can be confident of our gifts.
- We speak only words we know to be true. Gossip and lies have no place in a loving conversation.
- Our speech is edifying. We speak fairly and positively about others.
Transforming our conversation begins with a loving attitude. When we speak and act with love, our hearts will soften and we will begin to respond differently. We will become aware of which words we use and when to stop talking.
