Words work wonders. Or do they?
Words. Though many times words pall in light of the reality of a breathtaking scene, an abstract idea, or what can only be imagined, words are all we have. Words have the capacity to communicate what we understand, feel or believe. Words are able to convey and hold profound meaning. While not reality in themselves, words serve as placeholders when reality is not at hand or in view.
Work. In order for words to approximate and serve reality, the hard work of crafting, shaping and using words must be done. Too often words are spoken or written without thought or effort. Too many of us speak an avalanche of nouns, verbs and adjectives, erroneously thinking that volume equals communication. When too little time is spent weighing what we say, words have little substance or power. Worthwhile speech and written communication require intentionality and effort; words require work.
Wonders. In spite of their limitation, words can truly work wonders. Through hard work, words become wonders. In the telling of a story, the hearer cries or laughs. After hearing of a stirring speech, a person will make a life-defining decision or act with courage. Through a note of appreciation or words of love, a parent, child or spouse senses that they are loved and appreciated.
Words can create, uplift, inspire, encourage, transport, or they just hang in the air. Or worst, if spoken carelessly, they have the potential to destroy, maim, and hurt. In this age of talk radio, unbridled social networking, and uncivil public speech, when words are tossed like grenades, wonder-working words can be a rarity. The difference is in the crafting and speaking of our words.