Words Spoken Can Be Forgiven But Not Forgotten

Summary

The web content emphasizes the importance of choosing words wisely to avoid emotional and verbal abuse, advocating for the practice of emotional intelligence to foster healthy relationships and positive interactions.

Abstract

The article "2 Minute Motivation | Changing the World One Word at a Time" discusses the profound impact of words on individuals, emphasizing that while spoken words can be forgiven, they are often not forgotten. It highlights the prevalence of emotional abuse, affecting 50–80% of adults, and the damage it can cause to one's spirit. The piece advises speaking gently and responding with emotional intelligence rather than reacting impulsively. It suggests using a filter of truth, necessity, and kindness before speaking, as a way to prevent harm and maintain relationships. The author expresses a personal commitment to improving emotional intelligence, reducing sarcastic remarks, and apologizing when unintentionally hurting others. The ultimate goal is to enhance the world through careful and considerate communication.

Opinions

Emotional and verbal abuse is a significant issue, with a majority of adults experiencing it in their lifetime.
Words have the power to damage a person's self-worth, and thus should be used with care.
Emotional intelligence is crucial in communication; it involves listening, pausing, and responding thoughtfully rather than reacting hastily.
Sarcasm is seen as unnecessary and potentially offensive, not contributing to emotionally intelligent conversation.
The author acknowledges the potential to unintentionally hurt others and stresses the importance of apologizing when this occurs.
There is a personal commitment by the author to improve their own communication by being more mindful of their words and the impact they have.
The author believes that everyone has the capacity to positively influence the world through their choice of words and the way they communicate.

Verbal and emotional abuse dim the light of the soul

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Speak gently to people. Learn to respond rather than react to others — display the attainment of emotional intelligence. Words can often be forgiven but not forgotten. Between 50–80% of adults experience emotional abuse in their lifetime. Unlike physical abuse that manifests outwardly, emotional, and verbal abuse dims the light of the soul which is equally damaging.

“Before you speak, let your words pass through three gates:

~Is it true?

~Is it Necessary?

~Is it Kind?” ~Rumi

Cutting people down with words damages their self-worth. Often when we behave primitively (flight or fight) we act erratically and our thoughts become distorted. We say things we do not mean rather than pausing to allow clarity to set in. This can irreparably damage relationships.

People with high emotional intelligence listen, pause …… then respond rather than react. Sometimes this means taking a time out. This is different than stonewalling. Let the other person know we need some time and get back to them after we cool off.

Communicate clearly with a level head, as opposed to when our emotions are heightened.

Choose words wisely. I am learning to speak less and listen more. I used to think it was funny to joke around and be sarcastic but now I do not appreciate sarcasm. In fact, I do not like it at all. It can be very offensive and there is simply no need for it. It does not advance emotionally intelligent conversation, so don’t do it.

I want to add meaning and insight to people's lives, not diminish them. I never want to insult or hurt people. I realize that I may unintentionally hurt someone’s feelings and when that happens, I sincerely apologize.

This year I intend to do my best to rise into my best self by increasing my emotional intelligence and pausing to respond rather than react. Choosing the proper words to carefully protect the people I care about.

I want to protect my relationships and nurture them to the best of my ability.

We each have the power to improve the world one word at a time.

I hope you have a blessed and wonderful start to your new year. I would love for you to comment and tell me what topics interest you most.

2 Minute Motivation | Changing the World One Word at a Time

Words Spoken Can Be Forgiven But Not Forgotten

Verbal and emotional abuse dim the light of the soul

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