"Words are a heavy thing ... they weigh you down. If birds talked, they couldn't fly." ~ Marilyn
My favorite television series of all time was Northern Exposure. When it first aired, I was still in college and only got to watch it occasionally. Later in life, I purchased the DVDs and have now watched it many times. The writers for this show were brilliant. The series is witty and wise and quirky and profoundly thoughtful.
One of my favorite characters is Marilyn. She is quiet and calm and a great listener who sees way more than the folks around her realize. During the third season, she began dating a mute man, but she understood everything he was saying. In fact, their "conversations" were quite fascinating.
There are some people in my life who are not big talkers. My mom and my son are two who are filled with incredible wisdom and when they do choose to share it, you might feel blown away by them. When I think of them, I am reminded that it truly is important to let your words be few. I have gotten into many of my troubles simply by opening my mouth!
With our tongues, we hold impressive power. Our words can do positive things. They can bless those around us. Pleasant words, in fact, are like the honeycomb - they are sweet to the soul and health to the body (Proverbs 16:24).
Sadly, however, Marilyn was right about words. They are often heavy. They can hurt. They can split up marriages and damage children permanently. They can ruin your entire life. How often do we remember the kind words spoken to us over the ugly words? Those mean words sting to the core and stick forever. And if pleasant words can bring you health to your bones, what does that say about ugly words?
There is a saying that God gave us two ears and only one mouth because we should listen more than we talk. I agree with Marilyn. Birds would never be able to fly if they could talk. It really can mess us up.
So, may my words be few. May I love in deeds. And may I only use words that bring God glory.
