We can control the way we speak
By makingpots
@makingpots (11915)
United States
May 15, 2007 12:32am CST
It is challenging to examine our habits in terms of the words we use to express ourselves, but it is also exciting. Language is an area where we can exercise our free will, creating positive change in the world around us by simply choosing carefully the words we use. It may seem like a small thing, but our words have a rippling effect, like a stone thrown in a pond. People naturally pick up on the way other people speak, consciously or unconsciously changing the way they speak in response. We don't need to actively try to influence people; it happens without our even thinking about it. All we have to do is choose to be more conscious ourselves, putting to rest words and phrases that are outmoded, insensitive, or harmful. We can also exercise our creativity by creating new phrases that carry positive and loving energy to replace the old ones.
Can you think of some phrases that are outmoded, insensitive or harmful? Like, illegitimate child or boys don't cry.
1 person likes this
4 responses
@misheleen73 (6037)
• United States
15 May 07
I agree. If you are in the habit of cursing, but in the company of someone who is not using those words and you think they may not approve, you change the way you speak, cuttin said curse words out. Or if someone is cursing frequently, and you go out of your way to say "what the heck" or something similar instead of the curse word, they pick up on the fact you don't speak that way. As far as words or sayings that are hurtful or insensitive etc, I have come up with:
children should be seen and not heard
nice guys finish last
you're pretty good for a girl
there are more I'm sure, but I am drawing a blank
1 person likes this
@KrisNY (7590)
• United States
15 May 07
That was a very well-written and well thought out discussion. I agree- several times a day people use the wrong words or the wrong tone- It’s amazing how just changing your tone makes the thing you say sound totally different- From Whatever to WHAT EVER (sarcastic). If people including me- I’m guilty too- would change their tones- think about what they are saying prior to opening their mouths- we would be happier more positive people. I can think of several sayings that people should not say but I think tone is good too-
1 person likes this
@sukumar794 (5040)
• Thiruvananthapuram, India
15 May 07
In expressive behavior , words are to be carefully chosen . Words , they are more sharp than than the finely sharpened edge of a sword. It is very hard to choose your words when reacting to different situations.






