Sticks and stones.....

Remember the children's chant: sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me? Saying that might have kept some of us out of trouble at recess, but the more I reflect on those words, the more I must disagree with the assumption. Words can hurt us and often do.
I think for example of the blatant lies that are often broadcast in public and social media. Sometimes we do it unintentionally, not having questioned the source of our information, but repeating what we have received because it fits our preconceptions. Other times we do it deliberately to make our "point" and advance a particular agenda.
I think of slander and libelous comments fostered on those with whom we disagree. We assume the worse we can make others look, the better we and our like-minded associates can seem. We use words we do not understand and maliciously apply them to those we oppose. I heard someone observe: everyone is intitled to their own interpretation, but no one is intitled to their own facts. I have tried to be sure my "facts" are right before I pronounce them with authority.
I think careful and responsible attention to the words we use can restore civility and respect allowing ample opportunity for disagreement. Words set a tone, create an atmosphere or climate, and open or close attempts to communicate.
The words we use say more about us than about those we are attempting to characterize. Example: when someone says "nigger," they are revealing their prejudice and smallness of character. When we fill our discourse with words of violence and negative, destructive intention, we reveal our hostility and anger that accomplishes nothing constructive and uplifting.
I have consciously tried to eliminate phrases like "Jew someone down" because of the prejudicial stereotype behind it; I try not to use the word "kill" when talking about people and ideas because of the hostile, violent connotation; I try not to call someone I disagree with an "enemy," as I try to acknowledge their integrity and value as fellow human beings. Do I always live up to this lofty advice? No, and I apologize for my shortcomings. More and more I appreciate this incredible journey we are on together, and I need all the help I can get.
I am reminded of my traditions petition: "May the words of my mouth (MAY THE WORDS OF MY MOUTH) and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight." I start each day with these words on my lips, asking for help.