Words Are Like Air. It's easy to take them for granted.

"Words are singularly the most powerful force available to humanity. We can choose to use this force constructively with words of encouragement, or destructively using words of despair. Words have energy and power with the ability to help, to heal, to hinder, to hurt, to harm, to humiliate and to humble." 

- Yehuda Berg

I've been doing a lot of thinking about words this week. And because I know there is nothing new under the Sun, I went looking for existing wisdom on the subject. As I said to Chris a few days ago, I'm glad I've learned the value of going to people who had experience on a subject instead of just being self-assured in my abilities. I found there's been a lot written on the subject. 

Many words have been written to express the power and correct us of words.

As I dug through the treasure trove of thoughts, I realized I simply could not use everything I found. So I decided to use today's One Minute of Joy to share with you some of my favorites, and why.

It's important not to overreach when you are attempting to express yourself:

“Don't use words too big for the subject. Don't say infinitely when you mean very; otherwise you'll have no word left when you want to talk about something really infinite.” 

― C.S. Lewis

Yeah, save it for something more important than your Facebook update or a Tweet.

Even in these days of word gluttony, actions still speak louder:

"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them."

 -John F. Kennedy

It still means more to show someone your gratitude or care than to just say it.

Words framed in the right way can calm a contentious soul:

A soft answer turns away wrath,

    but a harsh word stirs up anger. 

- Proverbs 15:1

All points don't need to be proven. They are soon forgotten anyway. Preserve peace instead.

When you share words, check your attitude:

"People may hear your words, but they feel your attitude." 

- John C. Maxwell

Remember, the meaning of your words are in the ears of the beholder.

Editing is an excellent tool:

"Better than a thousand hollow words, is one word that brings peace." 

-Buddha

Reduce your words. Then edit again. And again.

Words can influence friends, but also enemies of the soul:

“But if thought corrupts language, language can also corrupt thought.” 

― George Orwell, 1984

Have a healing intent, not a deadly one with your words.

Words can be weapons wielded by cowards:

There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts,

    but the tongue of the wise brings healing. 

- Proverbs 12:18

There's nothing more painful to watch than a cyber bully. Be a hero, not a villain.

Words should not be taken for granted. Cherish their use, and your ability to use them, every day. 

Cheers.

A woman who truly understood the value of words.