We are not untouched by the things we speak.
The words we choose have power. They have the power to change minds. Too often, however, we focus on using our words to change others’ minds, not realizing that the words we choose also change the way that we think, the way we view the world, and the way that we interact with others. The easiest way to change the world for the better is to begin by changing ourselves and how we express ourselves within it.
If we are more intentional about the words we choose, we will begin to see the world differently. By being more reflective and less reactive, we give ourselves room to think and others room to be themselves. If we realize that not everything we think needs to be expressed outwardly, our thoughts will actually begin to change. As our thinking changes, so too does our behavior.
As much as our character becomes our words, our words become our character. If we choose words of kindness, we will find ourselves becoming more kind. If we choose words of generosity, we will in turn become more generous. If we choose words of compassion, graciousness, and understanding, we will start to become those things. We must choose our words wisely because they are not only from us, they become us.
Holistic Budo: As it is in budo, so too it is in life. As it is in life, so too it is in budo.
-Robert Van Valkenburgh is co-founder of Taikyoku Mind & Body, Severna Park’s Holistic Chamber of Commerce, and Kogen Dojo where he teaches Taikyoku Budo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
If you found this post helpful or meaningful in some way, please feel free to Share, Comment, and Subscribe below.