In 2006, I started writing mainly as form of therapy. Since then, I’ve learned sometimes the words are not about or for me. I keep reminders on my phone and around the house about the importance of communication, and the power behind my words. I never know if, when, or where what I write will help another. There are often others needing to hear a set of words that lets them know they are not losing their mind, they do make a difference, are not alone, or are not the only ones going through struggles. Here is an example out of my first book, The View From A Different Angle. It gives a little insight in to the power of words.
Five Can Make a Difference
Have you noticed how companies will advertise on most anything possible? I got a nice little surprise from a piece of advertising on, of all things, a book of matches. Rather than some brand of cigarettes or liquor, the cover was very simple. There were only two works in all caps: THANK YOU. There were probably 100 or so books of THANK YOU in the bowl. As I looked at the bowl, I thought, wouldn’t it be nice if someone said THANK YOU each time, they picked up a book of the matches? As I looked a little more at the books of THANK YOU, I began thinking about what simple words or combinations have the power to totally change people and situations. I narrowed it down to five.
1. Hello
2. Thank You
3. You’re Welcome
4. I Love You
5. I’m Sorry
Hello acknowledges someone else and typically generates a smile. Saying thank you typically gets a “you’re welcome” in response and a little smile. Saying I, love you with sincerity will create wonderful feelings in both the giver and receiver and usually gets some hugs and smiles. I’m sorry acknowledges you made a mistake and can help a stressful situation. I wonder what it would be like to only be able to communicate with body language and those five items. If I’m smiling, hugging, saying hello, thank you, and I love you all the time, there is not much time or need for I’m sorry. However, I would keep it around because, after all, I am a silly boy and do make mistakes. Seriously, though, think about how much better our communication would be if we smiled, hugged, and used those simple words and phrases. The world would be a little different, and a much better place.
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