"Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." I find this to be a bit erroneous. You should never let others' words have any impact on how you live your life, but words can be hurtful and I believe people should really think before they speak (even though I'm still learning to do this).

Recently I wrote a post on my personal blog on an encounter I had where the power of words really came into play. I plan to elaborate but for a bit of background information, the post can be found here: https://meganldustin.wordpress.com/2016/09/14/thos...

Everyone has their own insecurities or quirks that they'd rather others' not make fun of or point out. I think words can be used for good. Words can be used in positive lights, for encouragement, for support, etc. Other times, words are used to for demeaning purposes, for negativity, to bring others down...

My recent encounter left me frustrated and uneasy. The power of one person's words had an effect on me at first, but after thinking about it, I realized they really don't mean anything to me. I am learning to love myself for how I currently am, and how I hopefully soon will be. Trusting and believing in yourself is so incredibly important. Those who try to bring you down or point out your insecurities are doing so out of insecurities and problems within themselves. Maybe their dream didn't work out, and they want to bring you down instead. Whatever the reason, I feel there is a sense of honestly one can pursue while also being kind. You don't need to hold back your thoughts.

For instance, if someone is not in the "norm" or of the typical body type for their sport, how should you address it? (IF/WHEN should you?) Should you say something when that person is reaching out for help and encouragement from you? Or maybe when they're really down in the dumps about their appearance you can just lay all your thoughts about their largeness right there and then!? I think you can say your thoughts in a way that is respectful and at the right time. For this example (that's really more of me ranting, so sorry), I think the image of body should most definitely be addressed to the person if you're so inclined to address it, but there's a time and place for everything. This example is about me. I've been struggling with my weight for a little while, and to be told that I'm too heavy for my sport when I'm down was a smack in the face. I'm not the skinniest little triathlete you often see, but I am stronger than I have been in awhile and am working my butt off to improve myself and be better.

I think my main point of this post besides the rant is to think before you speak. Truly think about your words, and the effect they will have. They are way more powerful than you think and can really influence someone's life. Please be considerate.

End of rant.

Stay positive my friends.

xoxo, Meg