“I wish I hadn’t said that.” A regretful thought most of us have had. A moment of no self-control and it just flies out. I’m sure your home town, like mine in southern Indiana, has a variety of anger management classes to help people cope with unhappy outbursts that often lead to arguments and even violence. Is there a more lasting way to handle our hurtful slips of the tongue? My colleague, Beverly Goldsmith, writing for the September 16, 2015 issue of Motherpedia, gives us three helpful tips that not only “bridle the tongue” but lead us beyond mere self-control toward a lasting, spiritual peace. Here’s Bev:
It seems that we’ve all “snapped’ and said things that we later regret! Maybe the unkind words to a family member or co-worker were the result of thoughtlessness, frustration, or stress. One way to maintain good relations at home and at work, is to keep guard over one’s thought and tongue – to think and speak gently. Doing this fosters harmony, and it’s good for your health.
WATCH WHAT YOU SAY
When I was growing up, my Mother’s favourite words of wisdom were, “It’s not what you say, but the way you say it” and “If you can’t say anything nice, then don’t say anything at all”. Her sound instruction taught me the value of thinking before I speak, and to use kind and encouraging words in conversation. The tongue may be a small thing, but it can cause a fire-storm of damage!
TIP: Before “opening your mouth”, consider the impact of your words….