While growing up I often heard the phrase, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words willnever hurt me.” As a little kid, I thought that whoever had coined that phrase was completely wrong. Words are powerful. Words can shape the way we view ourselves. They can slice invisible wounds into our inner being.

However, words can also encourage. Words can empower. Words can inspire.

In this seemingly hostile world comprised of fear and hate, our behavior matters the most. The way you treat others is like dropping a stone into a puddle. It is in your power to determine whether the ripples are positive or negative.

Life can be overwhelming. The world we live in can be equally as overwhelming. However, compassion can overcome pain and suffering. It is important to remember that everyone we come across may be struggling with something. No matter who they love, the color of their skin, their gender or their beliefs, it is not our place to judge.

As beautifully stated by Reverend Amy Lehr Camp:

“God’s grief grows God’s very heart. And in the same way, our grief, our sorrow, our brokenness and loss can also grow our hearts. All human beings have hearts. And we all speak the same language, it’s the language of the heart. We have all know grief and loss, fear and anger. And we have all experienced love and compassion. All these feelings bind us together as the human family. We are works in progress, and we’re in this life thing together.”