Just read an article in a recent publication of ADVANCE (for Medical Laboratory Professionals) dated October 23, 2006. The article, "Mud Tossed Into a Clean Pool: Is there scientific proof that thoughts and words have tangible effects?", by Glen McDaniel, starts off with a twist of the cliche that many think about:
"Incredible as it may sound, it appears that not just sticks and stones, but words, can also hurt."
In the domestic violence world, we know that the words that can resonate loudly to another's soul -- whether it be for the good or bad. Hopefully, it is all good, but, as we know from working with domestic violence victims, the words are often used as triggers to upset the balance of the soul, to belittle the person, to exert power and control over another, etc.
The author of the article goes on further to quote Orison S. Marder's own observation:
"Our destiny changes with our thought, we shall become what we wish to become, do what we wish to do,only when our habitual thought corresponds with our decision."
I do, sincerely, believe that something to exacting some form of a change with decisions that we make, especially if we attempt to set forth positive decisions. Setting forth the positive is sometimes difficult at times; however, finding that silver lining or positive stroke can seem quite distant at times. When we do find that silver lining and/or positive stroke, we can finally set those wheels in motion.
When I work with victims of crimes and domestic violence, I have to say that one of the first things that I encourage them to do is to get the counselling that they need in order to heal their wounds, caused by viscious words that stab through their souls sometimes deeper than any physical harm can do, and allow them to be able to move forward through a variety of steps including, but not necessarily limited to, talking about safety planning and red flag identification so that they don't have to fall into the same trap of being a victim of any crime or domestic violence again. When the cloud that looms over them is removed and they can, once again, be able to see the light, they can also find inklings of that silver lining and/or positive strokes, and set their lives into motion with renewed strength and vigor.
The author ends his article stating, "Words are powerful. Use them wisely." I would certainly have to agree and encourage all to move forward with utilizing this sage advice into their everyday lives and try to affect everyone that they can with their positive words to powerfully affect everyone and project them into positive cycles of their lives!
