Make Every Word Count

A few years ago, I spoke at TEDxSalem and asked, “If your life was to be judged only by your words, how would you be remembered? Would your good intentions be overshadowed by negativity, gossip, sarcasm, and bitterness? Would your words be remembered as inspirational, loving, full of hope, and treasured by the community around you?”

How we respond to the tragedies now - with cynicism or compassion - is telling.

There's power in the language that we use. It can incite violence and further resentment or it can heal a community. That power is both a choice and a responsibility.

It's time that we make every word count.