Typically I have some kind of New Year's Resolution. This year, I don't. I could do the one word thing again, but unless I go back and check my Facebook records, I don't even know what my 2011 word was. Makes me a little sad, another failed initiative...This blog post actually started several months ago, but it just wasn't shaping up the way I wanted it to. Funny, at a time of year when most everyone I know is trying to "shape up" in a different sort of way, I finally want to shape up in a way that really matters. Don't get me wrong, I'll be working on getting fit just like everyone else. But what is really out of shape (and has been for a long time) is my heart and often, my tongue as well.
Instead of focusing on one word, I'm going to try to focus on ALL of them. Both said and unsaid, because actions often DO speak louder than words. (Cliches exist for a reason.) What follows are my (incomplete) lists of things I don't say enough and things I wish I didn't say. Plus a few scriptures to help guide my way. Because really, is there any better advice?
Things I Don't Say Enough:Please. Thank you. I trust you. I was wrong. I'm sorry. I forgive you. I love you.
Things I wish I didn't say (be it through actual words or actions):
Your effort wasn't enough. YOU aren't good enough. I'm always right. My time is more valuable than yours. My needs are more important than yours. My love is conditional.
Good words and sound advice:
Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,” and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. Romans 13:8-10
They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim cruel words like deadly arrows. Psalm 64:3
The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. Proverbs 12:18
and finally...
