Letter: January 2010

Words can be things of beauty. They can be used to inquire, to inspire, to inform, to conform. Words can be used to arouse joy or fear, to awaken or to numb; whether spoken or written, they are the way we communicate, one with the other. Often we give little thought to the words we use, simply blurting out what is on our mind rather than taking the time to clearly express our thoughts. 

Let us consider how much of our words are used to manipulate. Do we explain to inform others or to manipulate them? If we take an honest look at how we use our words we may find we often try to influence others by rationalizing our views or our behavior. We may use words like “spin” or “image” to intellectualize; to lend some redeeming quality to our self deception, and our attempt to misinform others. Rarely do our actions require an explanation for they speak more eloquently about us than our words ever can. 

If we feel a need to explain our behavior this may be our first clue we are using words to portray ourselves as something we are not. When our Lord was challenged to explain himself, he gently reminded others, “you have seen my works,” adding “for which of these do you condemn me?” He felt no need to manipulate the thoughts of others.  Our precious Jesus let his actions speak for themselves and we have no record of him ever defending them. If our actions are well thought out, if they are honest, they likewise may not need an explanation. Our dear Lord used words, and he did so beautifully; he was informative, inspiring, thoughtful and compassionate. These attributes are the four legs upon which stands the highest level of discourse. 

Do our acts speak for themselves or do we need to defend them? Are our words informative, inspiring, thoughtful and compassionate? Let us consider if they are not, why not? When we are right with ourselves, with our highest ideals; what need have we need of explanation? The line between inspiration and manipulation, as is the one between information and justification, is very broad indeed. On the one side of this line is the benefit to others and on the other is the benefit to us. Let us consider, would we use our words to perform miracles or make miracles of those in our lives?  

We are the children of Holiness, divine beyond our imagination. This is what we are and how we express our divinity shapes who we are. When we use words let us try to make them informative, inspiring, thoughtful, and compassionate. Let us endeavor constantly to express who we are in a way that more fully integrates what we are. Further, may we act in such a way that our deeds need no explanation, no justification. Finally, may our actions, our comings and goings, rise from our essential nature of tender loving kindness. 

May you be blessed in such a way that you will gain that clarity of vision to see yourself as a fragment of that unimaginable holiness we call God.