The Power of Language
What would your life be like if you had never heard the words, “Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.”?
What if you had never memorized the poem, “Two roads diverged in a yellow wood. And sorry I could not travel both and be one traveler, long I stood and looked down one as far as I could.”?
Can you imagine how impoverished you would feel if Dr. Suess had never penned these words, “I meant what I said and I said what I meant. An elephant’s faithful one-hundred percent.”
The Danger of Drawing a Blank
Human beings have a greater capacity for language than any other creature. With words, we can express profound wisdom and transmit it to others. Until a break-through concept has been translated into language, its potential to enact change is limited indeed.
Our brains store life-changing phrases in long-term memory where they can be drawn upon, when needed, to guide our actions in creative and meaningful ways. If there is no applicable language in place when we face an important decision, we lack the resources to make choices that are morally responsible. We need to be continually feeding our minds words that shape our spiritual destiny in constructive patterns. Words are the building blocks of the person we aspire to become.
Words to Live By
Here are words for which I am deeply grateful:
“I think I can. I think I can.”
"The answer, my friend, is blowing in the wind."
“The truth shall set you free.”
“Love your enemies.”
"You are a child of God."
Reflection Questions
What are some words that have made an impact on your life?
What are some resources you can access to add more building blocks to your spiritual and moral vocabulary?
Of what opportunities can you take advantage to share with others the words that have shaped your life?
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