words have power

It’s amazing (and scary) how much the words of others can either build us up or destroy us. Why is it that the hurtful words that tear us down outweigh those that lift us up? Why can’t we just focus on the good instead of the bad? That’s been my struggle this week.

As a blogger, we write and share about our life with the hopes that someone will read our words and that it will positively impact them, even if in a small way. So we write and write with hope but without really knowing (unless we are told of course). So, when someone takes the time to tell you how you have made a difference and that what you are doing matters, it makes your day. It really builds you up and adds a pep in your step.

Last Sunday, a friend of mine at church did just that for me. She was full of nice and encouraging words that really built me up as a person and made me feel important as a blogger in my community. I walked away encouraged and with a sense of pride in my work as a blogger.

Once we got in the car I was telling my hubby about what she had said and how much her kind words had meant to me (more than she’ll ever know). I really felt great!

Later that same day, a someone else expressed quite the opposite sentiment. He basically told me that he didn’t care about my blogging, my successes and my experiences and just like that, the “great” feeling was gone. Guess I don’t have to worry about him reading this post…LOL.

Back in the car and later that same night (and unfortunately over the next couple of days) I kept telling my husband how hurt I was by that persons words. My hubby kept reminding me of the words my friend had told me. Then he said something that made me stop and think. He said “why have you spent more time talking about (and focusing on) the hurtful words instead of the words of encouragement?” and you know what he was right (don’t tell him I said that).

Why would I let the hurtful words fill my head and heart, basically consuming me? Why did I give those hurtful words so much power? Why couldn’t I focus on the encouraging words my wonderful friend had told me? I’ll be honest, I still don’t know why! But enough is enough.

Every time those negative words pop in my head, I won’t add fuel to the fire by discussing it or paying attention to it. I won’t give those words any more power. I know it’s not going to be easy but it worth a shot.

Are you struggling with hurtful words that you just can’t shake? If so, I am sorry someone has hurt you. You are not alone. Please don’t give them the power to destroy you, you are better than that and so am I.