Summary

The article discusses the profound impact of words, particularly on Medium, where a comment can uplift a writer's spirit significantly during challenging times.

Abstract

The author reflects on the emotional power of words, emphasizing how encouraging comments on Medium can be deeply comforting, especially in the context of the increased loneliness due to COVID-19. Drawing from biblical proverbs, the piece highlights the healing nature of kind words, comparing them to "cold water to a weary soul." It acknowledges the solitary nature of writing but also the potential for connection and understanding when readers respond with empathy and support. The article suggests that positive feedback can be as refreshing and revitalizing as a soothing drink, and it can affirm a writer's sense of being heard and not alone.

Opinions

Words have the power to heal and to hurt, and this is especially true in the context of written communication on platforms like Medium.
Encouraging comments can have a significant positive impact on writers, who often grapple with loneliness and the need for validation.
The current era, marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, has exacerbated feelings of isolation, making supportive words even more valuable.
The article suggests that thoughtful comments can be as nourishing as "cold water to a weary soul," underscoring the restorative power of kind feedback.
The author believes that the right words at the right time can resonate deeply, leading to a profound emotional response, such as crying from a sense of being understood and not alone.
The piece quotes various figures to reinforce the idea that words are powerful tools that can inspire, destroy, or bring peace, and therefore should be chosen with care.

Someone on Medium Made Me Cry

Have you ever cried over a comment on Medium?

Have you ever cried over a comment on Medium?

And by cry, I mean tears of joy.

Well, maybe not joy. But they’re definitely not tears of sadness.

The world can be a lonely place.

And now, with COVID, it’s become a little lonelier.

In the Book of Proverbs (16:24), it states Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. In verses 25:25, it shares, Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land.

Oftentimes, I think writers are lonely.

We have a lot of words, a lot of emotions inside of us. And thank God, we have the ability to express it on paper (or on a screen).

And not only do our words hold power, but Proverbs 18:21 also puts it this way, Life and death are in the power of the tongue.

Yes, I’m sure we all get the occasional comment that makes us cringe and gives us a little anxiety. Because words hold power.

But oftentimes, when someone drops a word of encouragement, it truly is like cold water to a weary soul.

It’s been a challenging season for many of us, for a multitude of reasons.

And sometimes, you pour your heart and your words into a poem, into a short story, into an article, and someone says just the right words, at just the right time, and at that moment… you cry.

You’re not sad. You’re not necessarily happy. It’s just that you’ve been heard, you’ve been understood, and you’re not alone.

“Be mindful when it comes to your words. A string of some that don’t mean much to you may stick with someone for a lifetime.” — Rachael Wolchin

“I know nothing in the world that has as much power as a word. Sometimes I write one, and I look at it until it begins to shine.” — Emily Dickinson

“Kind words do not cost much. Yet they accomplish much.” — Blaise Pascal

“Words can inspire. And words can destroy. Choose yours well.” — Robin Sharma

“Better than a thousand hollow words is one word that brings peace.” — Buddha

“If you believe in the power of words, you can bring about physical changes in the universe.” — H. Scott Momaday