Words

"If you can't say something nice . . . don't say anything at all."

We remember this saying, right? I'm reminded of it after the events of today (including our conversation this morning about Bambi with Steph & Bryce - funny how these things come to light) and thought I'd share my thoughts on this and the power of our words.

In just the last hour I have seen how our words can motivate a person to greatness and how they can tear a person down to nothing.

"Stick and stones may break my bones, but words will NEVER hurt me."

Wrong - so, so wrong!

I'm a thinker and planner. Really always have been - I just accept it now. Relationships have always been difficult for me. The words I say are difficult to get out at times. My slight stutter really bothers me and I find that when I practice what I say before having a conversation with someone then I don't stutter as often. This may be why I love to be part of presentations that are planned out. Nerd, I know.

Regardless, words are very meaningful to me, as well. Perhaps I over think them (part of my OCD), but I do tend to cling to and decipher the things said to me.

Whether it be in passing or while having a deep, meaningful conversation with someone, I find myself trying to dig deeper into what they are saying. I'm not a very open person when it comes to my feelings but I will tell you just about anything else. It has been laid upon me that we are here to grow WITH one another and how else can we do that without being open to one another and learning through each others choices? It is my prayer that one day I will be able to open up on a more emotional level but am thankful for those who have stuck around me long enough to be able to hear how I feel about things. I'm like an onion I guess - lots of layers. ; )

Back to the power of words, though.

I'm in this wonderfully, painful point in my life where many of my friends are beginning to start families of their own. They are generally more wonderful than painful, but I do have my rough moments. 

I had the pleasure of attending a baby shower today of some sweet friends of ours that Karl and I haven't seen in a while. Everything was gorgeous and so sweet. I had arrived late and was so glad that I did after spending a wonderful morning with the Middleton's. Through my tardiness I was able to have a short but meaningful conversation with a woman that I don't know well but have already grown to respect in so many ways. Kristi has always been so uplifting and encouraging to me - even with not knowing me well. She has been a true testament of His love for us. Appreciate her so much!

Through our conversation and talking with dear Apolynne, I had a renewed sense of self, where we are in life right now, and the importance of the process. I was stretched, challenged, and encouraged all within a 30 minute time frame. How wonderful and exciting.

On the way home, contemplating my time with these wonderful women and feeling refreshed and ready to take on the craziness that is our house right now, I thought I should grab a warm beverage before returning home to conquer the world. So I did just that.

Here begins Part II: Words can also tear you down.

While at the window, ready for the yumminess that I knew was coming, I was greeted by a tired, flustered barista who handed me my drink rather quickly then ran to get my pastry. I still had payment in hand when the manager came to the window and said that this girl had really messed up and that he didn't have time to fix it. With that being said, my order was on the house. She returned a moment later with my pastry and wished me a good day. I thanked her then drove off.

As I was driving away several things went through my head.

I should have told her it's ok. I should have encouraged her.

How horrible of the manager to call her out to a customer like that.

Why treat people like that? Why didn't I try to make her feel better?

Our. Words. Are. Powerful. . . And so are our lack of words.

We have the power to change lives each day - it's all about how we treat one another.

What do you guys think?