Sticks and Stones...


When I was a little girl and someone said something hurtful, there were little sayings to fall back on. "Sticks and stones may break my bones but names will never hurt me." "I'm rubber. You're glue. Whatever you say bounces off of me and sticks to you."

Unfortunately, sayings aren't really shelds to keep you from being hurt when people say things (many times unintentionally) that cause pain or self doubt.

By the same token words can be encouragers and make people feel wonderful. One of my favorite books is "Silver Boxes" by Florence Littauer. She says genuine compliments, words of encouragment, catching people doing something right and acknowledging it are gifts - silver boxes. Words can make a positive difference in someone's day.

Over the years I have discovered my mouth must be a size 7 since my foot seems to fit so perfectly in it. I wish I always stopped to think before I spoke, unfortunately many times I don't. The words come tumbling out. Knowing that about myself makes it easier for me to understand and forgive when someone says something that inevitably hurts my feelings.

Superman has his kryptonite that causes him to lose his powers and feel less. I have discovered my kryptonite is..."I don't need you." "I don't want you." "I forgot you." Thankfully, just as Superman has been able to regain his powers if he gets away from that powerful green crystal, if I take a moment or two and realize the circumstances the words that hurt my heart were spoken it is okay. I rebound.

May we all realize the power of our words. Our mouths should come with a "proceed with caution" label, "handle with care" (smile).