Friday, February 25, 2011

Simple but not easy

Today's first reading addresses one of the most timely pieces of wisdom, a simple call for civility in our speech.

A kind mouth multiplies friends and appeases enemies,and gracious lips prompt friendly greetings.

Why does it seem so hard for us and why do we refuse to recognize the seriousness of the use of words. It was Jesus who reminded us that it is what come out of our mouth that makes us unclean, not what goes in.

Egypt has shown us how words can be used for good, and we only need to turn our televisions to see how words in our own country are used to stir, anger, hatred, and violence,

We should however never forget that it has to start with us as individuals. The simple act of one day at a time, one interaction at a time, choosing the words that will speak the truth, but with love. And sometimes we just need to keep silent.