Words are powerful tools. Be careful how you use them.
Our Words Are Like Toothpaste
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Charlene_C_Tops]Charlene C Tops
Sometimes having a visual to teach a lesson is very effective. One day, when my children were younger, I shared with them a” Life Lesson” about the usage of words. I had them gather around the table and gave each one of them an unopened tube of toothpaste with a blank sheet of paper. I asked them to open up the toothpaste and squirt it all out on the paper. They had so much fun doing this. I mean seriously when is a kid ever told they can play with the toothpaste! Of course, during this time they were constantly asking questions about why they were doing this. I told them they would soon find out.
After they had successfully emptied their tubes of toothpaste, I told them to put all the toothpaste back into the tube! They laughed and said, “Mom, that’s not possible!” That is the exact concept I wanted them to grasp. What an open moment to teach a valuable lesson.
I explained to them that our WORDS are just like the toothpaste, once they come out of your mouth you can never get them back! It is so important to think before you spurt out words that you may later regret. So often we speak before we think. It is easier to react with out taking the time to pause before we speak. We need to become aware of the power of our words. Phrases that we shot out of our mouths without thought may be damaging to those around us. It is too late once said. We can apologize or say that we didn’t really mean what we say, but the words will echo in the mind of the recipient long after they being said.
When I was in 5th grade my family moved to a new town and I began a new school. I remember being excited for the new adventure as I was always a social butterfly. My experiences were not so positive. Classmates tormented me through name calling. Fellow classmates made fun of me. I remember playing the game, Red Rover. I was always the last one chosen. Not only was I last but they had nicknamed me “Rover… like a dog.” It was so painful to hear the words, “Red Rover, Red Rover send Rover right over!” As you can see, I still remember those cruel words.
Today I remind you to always be mindful of your words. Before you react or respond to others listen to what you are saying. Take the time to formulate a wise answer. Use your words to lift up, to build up and to encourage those around you!
This little experience with the toothpaste has remained with my family throughout the years. We still say, Remember the toothpaste!
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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Our-Words-Are-Like-Toothpaste&id=7882226] Our Words Are Like Toothpaste
