Words, we use them every day and think nothing of it. But words can have power. They can encourage, educate, support, slash or inspire.

If you are like me, you might underestimate the effect that your words have on the people around you. I know I never thought about it, I’m not Winston Churchill or thought of myself as a person of influence, … but I am, and so are you.

A long time ago I was reminded of a forgotten conversation by a young man. He had been a camper when I was a camp counselor and he reminded me of a discussion I had had with him which  he never forgot. I was touched. I never knew my words could be memorable. He reminded me that we had had a discussion about music lyrics, and I had expressed my opinion about their importance and their effect. He reminded me of that, and I learned something that day. I felt good that I had said something positive, something memorable.

It’s not only the spoken word either. Written words of encouragement have impact also. A blogger I know (Spearfruit), but have never met in person has had impact on me and others. He takes the time in his replies to call me by my name, and he does it with others as well. He is taking the time to reach out and he is probably has no idea how that is appreciated by many who read his blog. A small thing, but it matters. A lot.

I shared a toastmaster speech called The Power of Words in a recent email to some of my friends and contacts. There were many youtube videos on this subject, this is not something I just discovered but it struck me that I notice the value of words from others but fail to see that my words have value also. You may feel like that also.

When a friend encourages me, I notice it and am touched. When I have the opportunity to speak up though to encourage someone else, I hesitate, worried I will feel embarrassed or somehow be misunderstood. What opportunities have I missed to encourage, or uplift someone because of my hesitation? Many, too many.

What is the value of communication?  Winston Churchill was a great orator, definitely but few of us will have the opportunity to uplift a nation.

A walk together

You and I do have the opportunity though to brighten someone’s day, let them know you notice them,  that you appreciate the time they share with you, the phone calls for no reason, and that you didn’t hesitate to speak, and listen. Those opportunities are yours and mine frequently.

Don’t hesitate to speak up, and if you need help in building your confidence in speaking up, visit a Toastmasters club to learn how. You and someone in your life could be thankful you developed that confidence in sharing.

One day, someone may stop you and say ” You probably don’t remember this, but I will never forget that day when you encouraged me, it changed my life.”

Won’t you be glad you spoke up, and used your power of words.

It is a Power that you have now, the power of words. Let’s all speak up.