The words we speak hold so much power. That is why it is necessary to think before we speak. We are all guilty of saying hurtful things in the heat of the moment and sometimes those things cut deep and stick with the person for a long time. When I was little, my mom and dad were arguing and saying some pretty hurtful stuff to one another. They were saying anything they thought what hurt the other the most. I got caught in the crosshairs just by being present and listening. My mom said, "What about her?" and pointed to me. My dad said, "What about her? She probably isn't even mine the way you sleep around." Now that I am older, I understand that he meant for his words to hurt my mom... however, they hurt me to the core. I had nightmares of different scenarios of me finding out he wasn't my father and didn't want anything to do with me for a couple of weeks after that. And still to this day those words hurt. I did end up doing an ancestry DNA test kit that was gifted to me. However, I was very hesitant and worried about submitting it because of that. Daddy assured me that I was his and that if for whatever reason I wasn't, it would not change anything. I submitted the test and of course I am his biological daughter. But because of those few little words meant to hurt my mother it stuck with me into adulthood. I am by no means perfect myself. I have gotten annoyed with my children multiple times and handled it rather harshly. This morning for instance my daughter forgot something and turning around to get it was going to make us late getting to everyone's school. I got angry and caught myself being hateful and I felt bad. I apologized to her. I understand it's human nature to lose our temper and not think before we speak. But we all need to remember that social media posts can be deleted. Messages can be unsent. Apologies can be made... but in the end those words stick with the person that you directed them towards. I hate the old saying, "sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." It is just not true. Sticks and stones can break your bones, but words can break your heart and tear you down mentally. Be mindful when speaking to anyone. If you are consumed with anger walk away, breathe and approach the situation later when you've calmed down. That will save you regret and the other person hard feelings.
-Feisty Mommy
Add comment
Comments