The Power of Words

One thing leads to another.  As a result of writing about Pulling Down I was thinking about the power of words.  Googling that brought up the headings “The Power of Words – How Words Impact Your Life”, “The Power of Spoken Words| Huff Post”, “The Power of Words – Alcohol and Drug Foundation” and “The Power of Words – Exploring your mind.”
Judging by these titles most realize the power words have.   They can be positive or negative.  I did not read the articles above but the fact one is by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation suggests many suffer from the effects of negative words.
Even watching interviews on tv show the power words have on people.  In One Plus One a person indicated that their whole life they had been surrounded by others that spoke negatively of her.  Even when she should have been enjoying success there was a continuation of negative words.
I was wondering why words have such power, and although there would be many reasons, I did think how words involve not just the mind but two of our senses.  Talking and hearing.  There is no doubt that words spoken reflect what is in the mind, but until something I spoken or acted upon it is a very individual thing.
I know I am not responsible for all that enters my mind (it can be a trigger from tv or what is said.)  But I am responsible for what I do with what enters my mind.  Some things I should flee, while it does me good to entertain other things.
Though knowing what to do and doing it are two different things.  That is why I need help.  Like it or not I seem to be inclined one way.  Someone on tv the other day said acts of kindness should not be the big deal they are.  They should be the rule rather than the exception.  Maybe they are, but unfortunately, they seem to be happening in a diminishing quantity.  It is way easier to take the line of least resistance.
I would rather say nothing than say something that at best takes the wind out of someone’s sails.  Maybe they are headed in the wrong direction, but that same wind can be used to turn around.  I want my words to help rather than shipwreck.
Most of what is said is just general conversation, but when I think the time is right, I do try to make people feel better about themselves.  Often the outcome is really good.  So often people are just going about their business and doing what they do.  Many are used to having their motives questioned and their output denigrated.  Having something positive said is like a breath of fresh air.  It is sometimes incredible to see the change.  Definitely makes it worthwhile for both of us.
Thankfully it is not something I need to force.  Habits can be both good and bad.  But the hardest part of forming any good habit is getting started.  I blow it.  I don’t get it right all the time but habits by nature are second nature.  Eventually I get it right more often than I get it wrong.