This morning was off to a wretched start. I got to the office and my co-worker was in the same funk. We decided that we need to hit the morning refresh button and start this thing again, hopefully with better results. So we went to breakfast. We had a server that spoke kind and encouraging words. And there it was...the fresh start that I needed. The day has been nothing short of great since then.
As I was thinking on this experience, I couldn't help but reflect on the power of words: to hurt or heal, build up or break down. Certainly, this week has some high-profile examples of how the reckless use of language can be devastating.
There is the story of Serena Williams who went off on the line judge at the U.S. Open. She spoke words of anger and malice as she questioned a call that was made during her match. Sure, she issued the sort of PR apology that celebrities need to issue if they don't want to get blackballed for their poor attitude. Yet, in spite of this public statement, she spoke words that were hurtful and although I'm certain that the line judge read the apology online or in the paper just like anyone else, it doesn't mean that the insulting tone of Serena's rant are not still painful to her. Her words questioned the judgement and skill of the judge, which I'm sure could make her feel insecure in herself and her abilities. Unfortunately, a public apology can't fix that.
And, then, there is the story of Taylor Swift and Kanye West at the MTV Video Music Awards. Taylor won for Best Female Video, making her the first country music artist to ever receive a VMA. Ever. And she's 19. So, needless to say, this should be a bright moment for her. Yet, sadly that moment was cut short by Kanye feeling the need to grab the microphone from her hand to inform her and the whole watching world that he didn't feel as though there was another artist more deserving of that award. It was painful to watch as you could see her muster up all of the courage she has to keep a brave face. He, too, issued a public apology and even, apparently, also called to offer a personal one. But, sadly, that doesn't fix it. I'm sure his statements, even if retracted later, have got to make Taylor question herself and her abilities; to ask herself if maybe he was right and she didn't deserve it. It doesn't matter if the words were true, they still sting.
I hope that these outbursts have reminded us of the power of our words and the importance that we speak them with intention and a keen awareness of the feelings of those around us. Let us not be emotive. Let us not be harsh. Let us not be careless.
"My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." ~James 1:19
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