Words Really Do Matter

Have you ever said something to a friend – with the best of intentions – only for it to be misconstrued?  That can be so hurtful...for both parties.

Sometimes we have to engage in difficult conversations.  It could be with a loved one, a boss, a friend...or even a stranger.  In situations like those, it is even more imperative that we not only carefully watch our words, but our tone and non-verbal signals also.  Yet even when we’ve done all of that, we sometimes find - to our dismay - that our message is still taken the wrong way.

Communication is between two parties; the sender and the receiver. And while we can take care to speak in a way that is thoughtful, kind and sincere, we cannot control how it may be received.  Likewise, when we are on the receiving end, we cannot shape the way in which the message is communicated to us.

The reality is that we all either say or receive messages through the filters of our life, perspective and paradigm. All of which can serve to convey the message as intended, or twist it into something that may be offensive or hurtful.  The Bible cautions us about the power of the tongue (James 3:2-10) and also encourages us to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry” (James 1:19).   

During these challenging, somewhat vitriolic times in our culture, it is crucial that we all take a slight P-A-U-S-E before we say something (especially when reacting to what we’ve heard or read), and also consider the possibility that we may be wrong when judging the intent of another.  And reacting during times of heightened emotions, is inherently problematic for all parties. 

Our motto at Forgewear is to “Say something...worthwhile”. We try to do that with the words on the clothing and gear we sell...certainly in the sincere hope that it will encourage others...perhaps resulting in positive changes in the way we and others live out our lives together.