I can’t even recall what the little argument was over, but a container of markers somehow ended up stuck in the middle of the disagreement. As the two kids simultaneously grabbed for the container while trying to keep it away from each other, I interrupted them. “Stop! Use your words. Talk about what the problem is – don’t just grab and push!”
With a little encouragement the two kids worked things out and peace once again reigned. I was amazed at how quickly and easily a conversation of wisely chosen words deescalated something that just a few minutes earlier threatened to bring about the next world war!
The words we use are either powerful weapons for evil or tools of peace. The writer of Proverbs wrote, “The tongue has the power of life and death.” Guard your tongue, choose your words carefully, and use your words wisely. You just might change your world!
