When You Say Nothing at All

We are all given the freedom of speech. It is a gift we receive since birth. We don’t choose it nor ask to have it but it is inherent in us. We have the right to express anything and everything we want and mostly we use our power of expression through spoken words.  However, having the right to articulate one’s opinion or thoughts doesn’t at any rate give us the equal privilege to say something which can be discriminating or hurtful to others. At times we tend to throw some jokes at other’s expense in an attempt to have some fun without realizing that someone might be offended or insulted. Words are words as they say, but once it has been spoken; nothing can be done to unsaid what has been said as the saying goes, “Spoken words can never be regain”. A word is really powerful. The bible can attest to the word’s power. “In the beginning was word, and the word was God”. An encouraging word can raise someone’s spirit to continue life’s battle but a harsh word can provoke someone to take his own life. A child who was raised with abusive and demoralizing words has a great possibility to grow up with low self-esteem and confidence, doesn’t know how to mingle with other people and tends to isolate himself from others. Once during my elementary years that I told my mom I’m not going to school anymore unless they change my name. It’s because classmates are making fun of my name which for them is very unusual for they only hear and read my name in stories. I’ve been a subject of bullying. Good thing was my father has a very good story about the origin of my name which convinced me to go back to school. Though children can be so tactless in what they say toward other people especially with kids same as their age, it is the parents’ duty as well as other adults to guide them on how they are going to use their innate gift and help them to refine their words. It is best to be an example to your kids because they tend to mimic what they see and hear especially if they witness it from adults. The golden rule in speaking must be before you say something, think first. There can be times when we cannot control our emotions especially when we are mad about something or someone and unkind words can be easily thrown like bullets. Indeed, we must learn when and how are we going to close and open our mouth and when to thrust our sword which is our tongue. It can be deadly and destructive so next time you feel you have to say something bad take heed, remember the title of a song, it would be best “When you say nothing at all”.