Words Matter: To hurt or heal

Words are one of the most powerful weapons of humankind. They can make or break everything within and around us. The words that heal the deepest wound, can also cause a gaping sore if used with the venom of anger and hatred. Words are like arrows; once shot can’t be retrieved. For many, physical wounds may heal quicker than the ones created with harsh and bitter words. With the rising number of issues related to mental health due to failed relationships on the personal and professional fronts, it’s a clarion call to us to watch out for our own words during communications.

There is no denying that pent-up anger due to frustrations or hopelessness results in physical or verbal aggression for both men and women. Look at the recent trend of angry young men rampaging on screens and regaining huge popularity all over the country. Do you think it’s for no reason? Cinema is but the reflection of society and there is an increasing amount of unrest in the society we live in. Several studies have repeatedly proved that words do have lasting effects on human psychology. Bullying or verbal abuse can not only trigger situational stress but may also cause long-term anxiety in individuals.

Cruel words have many more far-reaching effects on us than we anticipate. Harsh and bitter exchanges between close relationships like with one’s spouse or partner, parents, or friend may push people into depression, doing permanent damage to their self-esteem. A more sensitive mind can be pushed to take even extreme steps by ending life. Strong and bitter words are like dementors. They suck all the positive energies of a soul with their all-pervading trunks.

We have repeatedly observed that inspiring words can pull someone through difficult times, give new meaning to one’s life, bring back lost hopes, and illuminate the darkest world. The harsh words do just the opposite. They create negative vibes around the people who utter them. They turn one’s friend into a foe and cause irreparable damage in a relationship. I believe the peace within us has little to do with our surroundings though we always think otherwise. For a pluralistic society like ours, humility and tolerance had always come naturally to us. Traits like compassion, empathy, and tolerance only can make us sensible and considerate toward others. So, don’t let our bad mood wield control over our words. Our moods come and go like seasons, but the words we spoke may be indelible.