The following story demonstrates what can happen when we use words in a discouraging manner, and what can happen when we "turn a deaf ear" to those words which could dash our dreams or goals.
A group of frogs were traveling through the woods when two of them fell into a deep pit. All the other frogs gathered around the pit. When they saw how deep the pit was, they told the two frogs that they were as good as dead.
The two frogs ignored the comments and, with all their might, they tried to jump up out of the pit. The other frogs kept telling them to stop jumping because they were as good as dead. Finally, one of the frogs took heed to what the other frogs were saying and gave up. He fell down and died.
The other frog continued to jump as hard as he could. Once again, the crowd of frogs yelled at him to stop the pain and just die. He jumped even harder and finally made it out.
When he got out, the other frogs said, "Did you not hear us?" The frog explained to them that he was deaf. He thought they were encouraging him the entire time.
Our words can bring hope to others and to ourself at times when we need hope; they can bring encouragement when our courage is lacking; they can bring comfort when we are experiencing difficult situations.
I am sure that you, like others, have memories of words uttered by others that continue to ring in your memory some decades later. Some of the words were flung without understanding how they might impact us, for the good or to the detriment of our lives. Once spoken, words are like bullets released from a gun; they can not be stopped, and their effects may be devastatingly piercing.
Words used in a responsible manner can be life enhancing, while words used in an irresponsible manner can be menacing or devastating. Which option do you utilize when communicating with others?
Affirmation:
"I am aware of the power of my words as I communicate words of encouragement, support and understanding to my family, friends and co-workers this week."
By Mary Rau-Foster
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