The influence of words

Words are an important way to communicate with our surroundings, along with our body language, our facial

expressions and our eyes. Body language is the primary language of our feelings and emotions while words are the

language of our mind (rationality). Often words say something entirely contradictory to that of our body language. Words have less power and meaning because they are so often in contradiction with our body language that we become confused. We do not know exactly what we are in for, the double meaning quickly detected.

It is much more difficult to steer body language than words. Body language is usually more ‘honest’ more truthful than words. With words we can go in several directions. We can say certain things explicitly, or colour them in a specific way. We can be positive or negative. Words can have a preconceived purpose through which the objective truth can be short changed. We can even tell an outright lie. Words can both ruin and build up.

In the first place it is important that we bring our words in agreement with our feelings. It is not always necessary to confront others with what you consider to be the ‘truth’. This is only constructive if the other wishes to hear it and when it is in some way connected with that other person. If this is not the case, you are working only in your own

interest, you just want to score or be considered ‘right’ at the cost of the other. Instead of a positive result you will

provoke a negative one, using self centred words in your struggle to prove your personal point of view.

Instead of reacting immediately it is better if you listen to what the other has to say first, avoid thinking up a reply while you are still listening. Switch yourself off, start by listening and by accepting the truth which the other believes in and as he understands it. You will notice that by listening and by your understanding attitude the other is stimulated to let himself be fully heard and understood by you. You will be able to fully reach out to each other and laugh or cry together in harmony.

Words can have all kinds of additional intentions, instead of serving your own purpose you can be there for the other and serve him or her.

There is a lot of useless and empty conversation going on around us. Chatter often leads to gossip. Imperceptibly and maybe even unintended it creates a lot of negativity. Even more harmful and hurting is when you gossip intentionally, probably telling lies as well.

Use your words sparingly. Use them not just to serve yourself but use them to help others develop and come to bloom.