The Power of Words

Next in line at the grocery checkout counter, I unloaded my cart-full of items onto the conveyor. I’d shopped this store for years and noticed the new, young associate.  

She greeted me with a smile and inquired, as was customary in those days, “Would you like paper or plastic?”

I preferred paper, especially for the heavy items, but was aware the store was trying to encourage customers to choose plastic.

“Could you please give me paper bags for the heavy items and plastic bags for the lighter ones?” I asked.

“Sure,” the clerk responded. She turned to her attendant: “Please give her paper bags for the heavy items and plastic bags for the lighter ones.”

It was a simple request, but one that stuck in my mind. The clerk had repeated the exact words that I had used. She could have expressed it differently, but she didn't. Perhaps that is because of the manner of communication or the power of words.   

If the words came out in a not-so-nice manner, such as "I want paper bags ONLY!!!" or "Who gives a darn what kind of bag is used!?" the effect would have been much different for the clerk and the person bagging the groceries.   

The rest of the day, I thought about the impact our words can have: from positive, encouraging words to ones spoken without thought or care.   

A Bible verse from Proverbs 25:11 provides a wise saying for the way in which we should speak: "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver." 

I don’t always use words fittingly. Sometimes negative things slip from my tongue. I think of times in the past when I said things to those close to me that caused hurt feelings, discouragement, or even angry feelings. I felt bad, knowing my words had caused harm, and prayed for forgiveness and asked God to help me do better.      
 
We know words can change lives. Your life—and mine have likely been impacted by positive words or phrases, such as when we hear, "You can do it!”; “I have faith in you!”; "Great job!"; “You are going to be successful!", or "Where there’s a will, there’s a way!”

What good things have people said to you that made a difference in your life? 

Even a simple greeting can make a difference. We often hear the words, "Hello," "How are you?" or "Have a great day!" when visiting a store or other business. Yet, when we don't receive these greetings, we get the feeling that something is missing.      
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To use "words fitly spoken," as mentioned in the Book of Proverbs, benefits not only those on the receiving end of the words, but we also benefit by speaking from our hearts with kindness and compassion.     
     
May your week be a positive one, and may your words shine brightly!   
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​Photo courtesy of Vecteezy.com

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