A Lesson

A solitary Word, so simple, one syllable, and yet so incredibly powerful.

There are, of course, many complicated ones, often three or more syllables, but that doesn’t diminish the power of the simplest.

It happened the other evening when a one word description was applied in a jovial conversation.

The speaker had no intent to injure and considered her description as humorous. Still it wounded with the speed of a stiletto, and I was reduced to my knees emotionally.

There was no request for forgiveness nor request to utter an apology, but the incident taught me to be careful when I speak.

Because I, too, have fallen into the tempting pit of using my vocal ability to wound but hidden in the God given cloak of humor.

While I rather doubt it had much affect on Hillary’s election, her scathing description of opponents in September 2016 may possibly outlive future political skirmishes.

The candidate’s utter disdain for opponents with the memorable quote:“basket of deplorables” is not only reinforced but vividly remembered whenever her name is now introduced.

As I will now vividly remember the one word used to describe another with a chuckle and the pain that pierced my heart caused by a one syllable simple description.

Words can bring peace into chaos and calm into turmoil. They can remember love and loss and build bridges with memories.

Or without warning or care, they can cause grief with careless attempts at humor. And inflict wounds that rarely heal.

It is a lesson not to be forgotten.