Tuesday, April 17, 2012

RECKLESS WORDS

A few days ago someone hurt my feelings. I'm sure her intention was not to hurt me, she just wanted me  to know her opinion. And it differed from mine.
I thought about the words she used, and the way she used them. She could have said what she did in a different way. But I suppose that's not her personality.
Proverbs 12:18 Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
I've often wondered if some of the things I've said in passing hurt someones feelings. I didn't mean it to be hurtful, but our opinions were different.
People call or email me almost everyday sharing something "someone said" that hurt them.
I try to see that hurtful person the way Jesus would see them. I remind myself it's okay to have an opinion different from mine.
We just have to remember to sow seeds of kindness with our words. We don't have to use reckless words to get our point across. 
Be kind to one another.
    

6 comments:

Carol J. Garvin said...

My hubby had a children's story he used during one service. He brought a piece of shag carpet and container of salt to the children, had them sprinkle pinches of salt onto the carpet, and when they were done he asked them to pick up all the grains of salt that were lost in the carpet pile, and put them back in the container.

Then he explained that those grains of salt represented our words ... that once they spilled out, it was virtually impossible to gather them all up again.

It's a lesson we don't seem to remember very well! I know I too often speak without giving my words much forethought. I think that's why I prefer writing to public speaking -- I have the opportunity to think, write, review, and rewrite before publishing anything, even comments. Too bad real conversations aren't like that! :)

Kathryn Neff Perry, PhD, MA, LMHC said...

What a fabulous lesson your hubby taught! Not just the kids---but the rest of us too!
Give him a hug from me!

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

Honestly, I can't imagine you hurting anyone's feelings ever. You're too sweet for that, Katt. And if you did ever hurt anyone's feelings which I doubt, it was probably a teenager. Maybe even "your" teenager. Teenagers have a way of bringing out the worst in us. LOL. I had 5 at one time once. Lordy, it was a test of my resolve. Hugs.

Kathryn Neff Perry, PhD, MA, LMHC said...

My sweet Joy....someone hurt MY feelings? ha ha! and she isn't a teenager---old enough to know better.
You are too sweet, you had FIVE at once???? Oh praise the Lord you lived through it! ha ha!

True Crime Story: "Fighting the Devil" said...

pterva 1My dear Kathryn,
I am so sorry someone hurt your feelings. Some people have to put their misery on others-that's what makes them happy. I was taught if you can't say something good don't say anything. I love the salt your husband used to convey what we spill can't always be put back.
I will pray for you and for the person who hurt you.
I know God will bless you my dear friend. Truly, Jeannie Walker

Kathryn Neff Perry, PhD, MA, LMHC said...

Thank you so much Jeannie. And thanks for your prayers. I too will pray for you!
Hugs
Katt