In posts on my Facebook author page and Instagram on Tuesday, I talked about the power of words. I started by saying, “Words are so powerful. They can craft, wound, build up, tear down, influence, instigate, form, free, compliment, criticize. . . and so much more.”
I hadn’t intended to be prophetic; just to provoke thought. And then Wednesday happened, and we saw - in both the best and worst of ways - just how much words matter.
The deep wounds and divisions in our country were on display on Wednesday for all the world to see, but healing is possible. It starts with us - each one of us - being mindful of the words we choose and how we use them.
I’m starting with prayer. I posted this in an earlier blog way back in 2019 - which seems like a million years ago by now - but it still fits.
May it be so.
Help Us Find the Words
The world is full of words, Holy One.
Help us find the right ones.
Words of grace, not accusation.
Words of acceptance, not rejection.
Words with space enough to hold more than one point of view.
Help us find the words that convey our hurt
without inflicting more pain,
words that speak of need and desire
without manipulating.
Help us find the words to address our anger
without inflaming or laying blame,
words that communicate our thoughts
without discounting others.
Help us find words that open the door to dialogue,
and keep us from slamming that door by insisting on the last word.
Help us find words that articulate our differences
with respect, not condemnation.
Help us find words that will draw the circle wide,
with room for all,
words that speak peace,
offer hope, share love.
Help us find the words—and the courage—
to speak our truth—and speak truth to power—when necessary,
to honestly name what is there
without hypocrisy or prejudice.
And hold our tongues when our words
would only harm or destroy.