They say words are just air —- sounds that disappear as quickly as they arrive. But if that were true, why do some words stay with us forever?
Lately, I’ve been reminded just how powerful words can be. Not in a beautiful, uplifting way — but in a painful, unforgettable one. I recently had an argument with to people from my past who still hold a place in my present, and it left me shaken. Words were thrown by not only them but also me — especially me. Words were thrown like weapons — sharp, fast, and cold. And long after the conversation ended, those words lingered.
Words Can Wound
It’s easy to dismiss what’s said in anger — to write it off as heat-of-the-moment emotion. But when someone speaks from a place of resentment, blame, or cruelty, those words don’t just bounce off. They land. They echo. Loudly.
I’ve replayed certain sentences in my head more times than I care to admit. Not because I want to – but because they cut. And that’s the thing about words: they don’t need fits to leave bruises.
Words Also Reveal
As painful as the argument was, it taught me something. Words reveal people. In a single heated exchange, you can learn how someone really sees you, what they hold onto, and what they’re still unwilling to let go of. That truth is hard to swallow. But it’s also freeing. Because once something is said or “texted,” , can’t be unsaid. And sometimes, clarity – even painful clarity – is what we need to grow, detach, and set new boundaries.
Forgiveness Doesn’t Mean Silence
I used think forgiving someone meant pretending the hurt never happened. That if I truly let go, I’d stop feeling angry or replaying the moment. But maybe forgiveness isn’t a magical erasing of pain — maybe it’s just refusing to let those words define you anymore.
I don’t have all of the answers. In fact, God is still working on my imperfections and they are many. Asking the Holy Spirit to help us in the time of need is the most humble action we can take as believers. It doesn’t mean that I am not hurt. It doesn’t mean that the anger will subside right away. I think we all are still trying to figure out what forgiveness looks like when the wounds are fresh. But what I do know is this: I don’t want to use my words in the way others have. I don’t want to match cruelty for cruelty.
Because words hold power — and I want mine to be a source of strength, not destruction.
What We Say Matters
Whether we’re talking to someone we love, someone we’ve lost, or someone we’re trying to forgive, the words we choose shape the emotional space we all have to live in. They can either be a shelter or a storm.
So will you work on this with me? Again………………………….?
- Speaking slowly, even when upset.
- Writing instead of yelling, because clarity comes easier on a page.
- Choosing honestly over spite, and silence over unnecessary harm.
It’s not easy. Aiming to resemble Christ or walk His walk is not an easy task – how could we ever think it’s easy when even He cried out – “Lord take this cup away from me” –
Closing Thoughts
If you’ve been on the receiving end of harsh words – or if you’ve spoken them and now regret it – you’re not alone. We’re all just learning how t speak in a way that honors ourselves and others. We get it wrong. Social media comments – boy some of those can be the worse. We try again.
Words have power. They can break, yes, but they can also build. If I’m going to use mine for anything — let it be for healing — starting with myself.
Thank you for taking the time out to read: Cohesionbox.org