Words matter. In stories they can create a multitude of emotions. A writer essentially creates a picture with words. A reader can lose himself in a well written story as the writer weaves his magic spell. Have you ever been so into a story about a winter storm that when you closed your book, you were disoriented as you returned to 100 degree humid reality? Words can create a simple or a classy stylish setting – simple or sophisticated. Words let the reader escape into an alternate reality.
Words call upon all the senses. They can make you cry or laugh out loud. Soothing words linked together can bring calm and a sense of well being. Action words can get your heart racing as you experience a situation filled with danger and adventure. Otherworldly words can transport you into another world where you feel what it is like to live on another planet and encounter other species. Words of nature can be warm and wondrous as you imagine the flora and fauna around you. Animals have their own set of related words. They speak of companionship and warm fuzzies. Some animals cry out for help and rescue, eliciting feelings of compassion and empathy. You are drawn to a cause greater than yourself. Words take us out of ourselves and let us experience whatever we can imagine.
Once we have experienced the power of words in stories, we can bring their essence into our present. We can choose kindness over criticism. We can choose truth over misinformation. We can choose words of encouragement for our fellow man. We can use empathetic words to soothe the aching grief of a friend who has lost their soul mate. We can choose words that bring laughter and a sense of belonging.
Words matter. Choose them wisely for your words have a ripple effect as they spread out to people you never knew who were touched by the words you spoke.
Ruby Bonham
Writing Group
8-6-2024
Ruby, great words. You hit the nail on the head. Thoughtless words can harm. Thoughtful words can cause great happiness. We don’t hear your words often enough. Keep em coming.
Thanks Ruby. Well said. Good word choice.
What a timely article, Ruby! But, I would add that words are only important if spoken when needed. A timely word of consolation means everything; one that is too late may in fact be hurtful.
It’s sometimes hard to speak up when our friends and neighbors are hurting, but that’s when consoling words are most important. If you can’t bring yourself to speak, at least write and deliver a short, timely note.
Thanks for your continuing writings.
One word: Beautiful!
Great words Ruby. Thank you.