By Rev. Fr. Tristan Jasper D. Laforteza
Do you know how powerful your words are? Sometimes, we use words without thinking about their impact in our lives. Don’t underestimate the power of your words, as they are not meaningless or powerless. They hold such power and meaning to change our lives completely. I remember what my friend shared one time. She said that whenever her family would talk about death, her dad would always say that he will be happy if he goes beyond 60 years old. That if he reaches that age, it would be okay to pass away. So, her dad died at the age of 61. Each time the subject would come up, he would always say that, and in the end, that was exactly what happened.
Believe me when I say to you, that what you say, you become. If you say you are a success, then you will be a success. If you say you’re not, then you will surely find yourself on the other end of the stick. To those who say, that they were born poor, they will live poor and eventually die poor, then surely that will come true. But to those who say that it will not be the life for them, then you will see them slowly picking themselves up from their poverty-stricken world and find themselves prospering and flourishing amidst the hardships they face. Let me share with you three simple tips on how to use the Power of your Words.
Step #1 BE PRUDENT IN YOUR CHOICE OF WORDS. If you believe that words have power, then you should choose your words carefully. Learn how to speak positively and you’ll be amazed at how much it can change your life. We have become so accustomed to speaking about problems and misfortunes to others. And as we complain about the not so good things in our lives, we put those negatives thoughts out there and it becomes our reality. Think about it, do you really want to communicate to the world that you are unlucky in love, miserable or unsuccessful in your life? Without realizing, these these words that you utter consistently are the very reason you are living the life you have now.
Indeed, the Bible also tells of the power of words, Proverbs 18:21 says “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.” Make no mistake.
Every word that comes out of your mouth is powerful, and you should be careful what you let out of it. What words have you always been uttering? Do you think these words made an impact in your life?
Step #2 USE AFFIRMATIONS FOR SELF-IMPROVEMENT. St Paul tells his followers in Ephesians 4:29 “Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only what is useful for building up, as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear.” So, use only words that build up and give grace to those who hear. Think about it, with each word you utter, who is listening intently? Your partner, your children, your friends and those closest to you. If you answer these, then yes you will be right, but you are forgetting the most important listener of all —YOURSELF! You are the first one who hears what you say and hear it clearly even when you only whisper. Be mindful of what you are saying to yourself. What positive affirmations would you say to yourself? What words would you like to hear someone say to you that will make you happy and feel good about yourself?
Step #3 SPEAK FROM A PLACE OF LOVE. I find this true for almost everyone I encountered whenever they would complain about what is wrong in their lives, it mostly stems from fear. Fear of not being able to provide enough for the family, fear of being found lacking, and even fear of failure. Whenever you start complaining about anything in your life, stop yourself and contemplate where you are coming from. Are you coming from a place of hate and fear or are you coming from a place of love and hope? Instead of complaining about your life, find something to be grateful for. Instead of speaking about what is lacking in your life, look for what is in your life and you might be surprised at what you can find. St Paul puts it so nicely in his letter to the Philippians, “not that I am referring to being in need; for I have learned to be content with whatever I have.” (Philippians 4:11) When you feel contentment, you will not feel the need to complain. You will not feel the need to put others or yourself down. So, choose your words carefully whenever you open your mouth and speak from a place of love, I’m sure, you’ll never go wrong. What do you mostly complain about? Why? Can you find something good about that situation?
SOMETHING TO TRY. Okay, here’s something to try out. Learn to choose your words carefully. Be mindful of the words that come out of your mouth. Catch yourself using negative words like ‘can’t’, ‘won’t’, or uttering something negative about yourself, your life or those around you. When you find yourself doing it, make a conscious effort to stop and turn it around and make it into a more positive affirmation. Begin to look for something positive in the situation, in the person or in the idea. It might take some time getting used to it, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll realize that you’re already doing it without conscious effort. Remember, your life is an empty paper and your words are the pen with which you write it with. Pick your words right and write the story of your great life.
