The
power of words are utilised in all types of situations and for an infinite number of reasons, both good and bad. They are used to incite violence or instil calm, to hurt or to lift spirits, to motivate or break a person and to deceive or empower. Irrespective of our native tongue or our dialect, the strength of the words we use can be a great influence in the ears of the receiver. When we consider that great leaders have inspired nations to unite behind them, generals earned the loyalties of armies following them to probable death and even cult leaders persuading their followers into mass suicides with words, the magnitude of that power becomes tangible.
Even though from birth we find various ways of communicating needs and desires before we have the command of speech, it is not until we are able to actually form intelligible words that we broaden the possibilities for expressing complex feelings and become able to influence more than nurturing responses from those around us. Once we are able to develop this skill we are able to contribute to action and feelings in others.
Communicating with others is the premise on which we build anything; relationships, physical structures, planning strategies and businesses to name a few. Many of us may find ourselves at a loss for words or unable to express our feelings adequately under circumstances that make us uncomfortable, but unless we master the use of language we will forever be at a disadvantage. It will follow that our needs may not be met, our wishes not considered and our viewpoints not understood. Even what we say to ourselves in our heads is potent. We can talk ourselves in and out of situations, associations, marriages; in and out of life changing decisions.
Miscommunication can cause a myriad of problems and the use of language to portray temporary feelings can be the seed of detrimental conflict. Words cannot be taken back once spoken and the damage they can do is far reaching. Destructive language can have implications that are irreparable. In order for your listener to grasp true meaning behind your words, it is important that you are clear with that meaning.
The words we use, whether verbally or in writing, influence how others perceive us and direct them to an understanding of how we perceive them. They factor into the decisions people will make about us. They can build or destroy relationships. Many people are compelled to voice any passing feeling, thought or impression they have without regard for the impact their words will have. They randomly unload the contents of their mind whether it be trivial matters or gossip about others that can cause untold, albeit unintentional, damage.
Our use of words can also cause social damage and although this issue may seem old fashioned to some, the over-use of indecent language is cause for acute sadness when looking at how desensitised our young people have become and how insensitively so many use it. With the choice of over a million words, why do people feel the need to express themselves in a vulgar manner in environments where they may potentially offend? The freedom of speech certainly reigns in most places, but there is still a responsibility to young children and people of an opposing verbal persuasion not to offend with choice of language.
When we consider what kind of language our children are listening to in music videos, at school among peers and even in some homes, it is only natural that they will mimic. Foul language is frequently heard in shops, on public transport, in the streets; so many places where the youngest of children are present. I also hear the same obscenities coming from those barely able to form coherent sentences. With such aggressive tones and negative sentiment, what are we allowing our children to soak up as their foundation from such an impressionable stage in their lives?
Before speaking, take a few moments to contemplate what you will say and how you will say it; while considering the impact they will have on the listener. Think about who else is around to pick up on what your words mean. Whether you are giving a speech, comforting a friend, berating a child, arguing with a spouse, sharing a joke or voicing an opinion. The choice of words, the tone we use and the true sentiment behind it will give it either phenomenal power or influence, or render great thoughts inadequate due to a lack of clear expression. What will you say, what do you mean?
