The Power

” I hate you!” I could see the anger raging through his body, like water flowing through white rapids. He trembled as he stood before me quivering with anger. The intensity in his eyes would have even made a grown man run for shelter. In that very moment, the way I viewed my father would forever be changed.

Those three words echoed through my mind. I stood there, frozen and speechless. Did he really hate me? Hate seemed to be such a strong word for such a subtle mistake. My mind snapped back and I averted my eyes to the floor. I was hurt, heartbroken, and above all else, devastated. How could he so nonchalantly mutter such a harsh phrase to his precious little daughter? The tongue holds ultimate power and without taking a second thought, words that were never meant to be said can be spoken so easily.

I believe you should be cautious with what you say. You never know just how destructive your words can be. I know my dad didn’t mean that he really hated me, but more that he was just disappointed with my choice to disobey his command. Although at the time those were his first choice of words, if he was able to analyze the situation with a more level head, I think that he would have been able express his emotions in a more effective way.

Each day people mistakenly and regretfully say things that were never meant to be said. Without thinking and realizing the profound effect the words may have on someone, things are said that can hold a greater impact than what the words were really intended to mean. Anyone who’s endured verbal abuse will likely vouch that it’s one small incident that will influence the rest of their life. There is so much more power in our words than what we are conscious of. It’s not dirty looks or gestures that are likely to start wars. As far as I know, battles have started over words, disputes, and arguments. Before blurting out the first thing that comes to mind when you’re angry, really think about what your next statement is going to be. Using harsh and vulgar words will not have a positive outcome and may create even more of a dilemma. Just be cautious with what you say because words have the power of life and death.