Last week I wrote about being brave and living dreams. I spoke of how difficult living dreams can be, even the dreams He plants. Often I claim immunity to other’s opinions, but in truth, one negative comment can ring in my head for months.
Why do I give words such power?
Last weekend, I attended a writing conference, received positive feedback, met funny people, learned new things, and listened to an editor express interest in my writing, and now, I feel like this:
Yes, dancing in the streets, hitting home runs, hugging strangers, jamming out with a singing blue bird and marching band. That’s where I am, riding the high of positive talk.
And so I ask myself again, why do I give words such power?
What about you? Are you good at seeing the positive in yourself, or do you put too much worth on the ebb and flow of others' opinions?
14 comments:
hit the nail on the head A...i ask the same question? why give them so much power..esp the negative ones that tear down?
I was just teaching Grace this yesterday after a boy said some mean things to her at school. I told her it was our enemy whispering lies to her heart and then proceeded to explain God's words are truth and those are lies that want to smash God's dreams for her. OK..doesn't make much sense but words are really powerful...it is our choice if we are going to believe them...I'm starting with her now!!...:)
Thank you for stopping by my blog. This is so true. In the world of adoption language is so powerful. Real mom vs. biological mom. Given up vs. placed for adoption. The misuse of a word can change a beatiful story into a heartbreaking one.
And teaching our children the power of words early, like Tiffini said, is so important.
Great post Amy! Agreed positive words have a way of making people aspire to greater things. I must constantly keep this in mind as a director. It's so easy to point out the negative in an attempt to push improvement but without positive reinforcement the "improvement suggestions" simply become another anchor. I'll keep this in mind when I get to the office and look for something to praise each team member on.
Have you ever read Gary Chapman's book about love languages? One of the 5 love languages he talks about is Words of Affirmation. While I think we should be careful not to find our self-worth in others' expressed opinions, I think God has formed some of us to view positive words as gifts. On the flip side, if we are sensitive to positive words in that way, imagine how negative words damage us? Through reading the book, I discovered my #1 love language is words of affirmation, so I am much like you - words can build you sky high, or they can trample you right into the ground!
T,
I love your conversation with Grace. I think as my girls grow, this will be a conversation I have more and more. Working at a high school, I'm always surprised at what I hear the kids saying to each other. . .ouch.
Gabby,
I'm so glad you related this to another topic, adoption! I've never thought about it, but "real mom" and "given up" sound so terrible, and I've used both those terms before. I won't again. Thanks for adding to the conversation.
Rachel,
Traveling to Asia and now I find out you are a director? Why is it that I can't piece together what you do?
Kathleen,
I have read that book, but it's been forever ago. I used to be "Time Together" (not sure that's the right wording). I remember when I read it, "Words of Affirmation" was low on my list. I wonder if my language has changed over the last few years. ?? Mabe.
Absolutely so happy for you. Hope the conference went well. I'm all smiles for you!
Amy I so felt the same way. Still riding high, but one word or negative comment can drag us down. Let's keep each other lifted up!
Sounds like you had a great conference experience -- I'm anxious to hear more! Ever think the Lord provided those words for you? That they were the boost He wanted you to have? That's what I'm thinking, Amy. You keep dreaming and keep writing!
Me too! Want to hear more! And owing you an e-mail;) Love this video and fun picturing you jiving like this--that made me smile...
well, i've been asking this same question, mostly, since i let a couple of comments (really, not meant to hurt, but still did) from my MIL really hurt me...why do i give them such power? and missed my bloggy friends at the same time...well, all for perspective and to hear His words the loudest, which is always what the 'condemning words' drive us too as we give them to Him...talk to you soon!
Abby,
So glad you are back! I actually thought about emailing you a couple of times, but thought nope. . .she's unplugged.
Excited to catch up!
Yup, totally wooed by the power of others' words. A self-esteem problem maybe? A prioritization problem - as in too much emphasis on others and not enough on God? I don't know...but very good food for thought for sure.
Sounds like you had a productive conference -- and kudos on the connection with the editor -- that sounds fruitful!
That's pretty awesome, Amy! I think there is that thing--the coming down from the mountain--after these kind of experiences. Be gentle with yourself. We are these week and frail things.
Heehee--weak and frail.
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