As writers, we have the power of words. How we say something can make all the difference in the world. Watch this video and see it for yourself. It will only take less than 2 minutes of your life to do so.
So true. In therapy sessions, I often find myself listening, then paraphrasing what a client has said (i.e., "So you're saying that you're ..."). And they look at me and say, "yeah. Exactly. But you said it so much better." I feel sort of ambivalent about that, because I'm happy they feel I understand them, but I'm frustrated for them, because it sometimes is so hard to say exactly what you want, to explain yourself in a way another human can really *get*, in a way that resonates with them and moves them to action. The words make a big difference.
And yet, when we're given the task of pitching our books, most of us balk or write something so boring it would put an insomniac to sleep. There's more than one kind of writing....
Thought provoking post. We are surrounded by veterans and GIs. as we live very close to West Point Millitary Academy. Our rule here is PTS for people with PTSD. ie Please, Thank you and Sorry for the ones who are hurting.
I confess, I pass by Harvard Square, Cambridge on my way home from work everyday. I see the same 4 homeless people. Of the 4: 1 has no teeth, 2 say they are veterans on their signs, 2 days they were hit by drunk drivers, one is missing teeth, 1 is a female, and 1 (ironically) wears a Harvard sweatshirt.
There are homeless people who sell newspapers to raise $ for the homeless. It's called "Spare Change". I always buy it. But I rarely give change. It bothers me to roll down my window. And I don't want them to use it for booze or drugs. But because I see them everyday, I know they have relationships with each other. They're not faceless to me. I think about making sandwiches and giving it to them, but I'm not sure how it would be received and how often I should do it. Is my best way to help by giving to local organizations that provide homeless outreach?
What does he do when it's not a beautiful day? Being a grumpy bulldog, I don't care what their sign says or what story they give me. I'll give to a food bank, but I'm not giving money away to random people who will probably use it for booze. At least if I give it to Gleaners or Salvation Army I can be reasonably sure some of it will go to doing good.
Definitely worth the time it took to watch this. I tend to overthink things, so I also thought about how many of us throw our donations at the less fortunate as if it would take too much time to get a little closer. Thanks for sharing this.
I have this video favourited. It's one of the best things I've found on the internet.
ReplyDelete...loved it, Michael.
ReplyDeleteIndeed, the power of language can out duel the sharpest of blades in any arena...if used properly.
And who are we, but a group of knights, attempting to harness that strength ;)
El
So true. In therapy sessions, I often find myself listening, then paraphrasing what a client has said (i.e., "So you're saying that you're ..."). And they look at me and say, "yeah. Exactly. But you said it so much better." I feel sort of ambivalent about that, because I'm happy they feel I understand them, but I'm frustrated for them, because it sometimes is so hard to say exactly what you want, to explain yourself in a way another human can really *get*, in a way that resonates with them and moves them to action. The words make a big difference.
ReplyDeleteIt's makes one think how our words can make more of an impact in a good way.
ReplyDeleteOMG it is just awesome! So touching. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteGoosbumps!! I am sharing this every where. Thank you, Michael.
ReplyDeleteWow. That's an amazing clip. Thank you so much for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI was not expecting those people to be Scottish. Not sure why.
ReplyDeleteNow that was very cool. Thanks! Mind if I borrow it?
ReplyDeleteIf I were to walk by someone with a sign like that, I would most likely help them out too.
ReplyDeleteThanks for you reminder of the power of words.
I'm misty eyed. Darn you Michael! You messed up my mascara. It was sooo worth it. Thanks! : )
ReplyDeleteAnd yet, when we're given the task of pitching our books, most of us balk or write something so boring it would put an insomniac to sleep. There's more than one kind of writing....
ReplyDeleteYou know what I got out of that?
ReplyDeleteSome people gave coins, and helped a little. The girl in the green shoes gave some time and thought, and helped a lot.
Pay attention to the world around you, and think about how you could do more, and things'll be better.
Thought provoking post.
ReplyDeleteWe are surrounded by veterans and GIs. as we live very close to West Point Millitary Academy. Our rule here is PTS for people with PTSD. ie Please, Thank you and Sorry for the ones who are hurting.
Love it. Words are mighty powerful when they're put in the right order. :)
ReplyDeleteThat was beautiful.
ReplyDeleteThat was beautiful. Made me teary eyed. Thanks for sharing. :)
ReplyDeleteWords we write and words we speak are powerful. We can cut someone down or lift someone up. Wonderful video.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great little video. It made me feel all happy and weepy at the same time. I'd seen it before but it was good to see again.
ReplyDeleteLee
Best selling author Lani Diane Rich visits
Tossing It Out
Wednesday November 16th.
A friend sent me this video a little while back and I fell in love with it and with the message.
ReplyDeleteSame message, but her words reached the heart of others.
ReplyDeleteThat's lovely.
ReplyDeleteI confess, I pass by Harvard Square, Cambridge on my way home from work everyday. I see the same 4 homeless people. Of the 4: 1 has no teeth, 2 say they are veterans on their signs, 2 days they were hit by drunk drivers, one is missing teeth, 1 is a female, and 1 (ironically) wears a Harvard sweatshirt.
There are homeless people who sell newspapers to raise $ for the homeless. It's called "Spare Change". I always buy it. But I rarely give change. It bothers me to roll down my window. And I don't want them to use it for booze or drugs. But because I see them everyday, I know they have relationships with each other. They're not faceless to me. I think about making sandwiches and giving it to them, but I'm not sure how it would be received and how often I should do it. Is my best way to help by giving to local organizations that provide homeless outreach?
Great video and thanks for sharing it.
ReplyDeleteGreat video. The music worked well in it.
ReplyDeleteWhat does he do when it's not a beautiful day? Being a grumpy bulldog, I don't care what their sign says or what story they give me. I'll give to a food bank, but I'm not giving money away to random people who will probably use it for booze. At least if I give it to Gleaners or Salvation Army I can be reasonably sure some of it will go to doing good.
ReplyDeletegood... not QUITE excellent; should read: BUT i can't see it!
ReplyDeleteI am in Starbucks right now and dont feel like I can watch a video...but I promise I'll come back and watch. Promise:)
ReplyDeleteThat's a beautiful video. Thanks so much. Words do make a difference.
ReplyDeleteExcellent. Words can mean so much.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful video and music.
ReplyDeleteThat video made me want to cry. No kidding. What a great one to post. THX.
ReplyDeleteThat was excellent. What a lovely thought :)
ReplyDelete.......dhole
Definitely worth the time it took to watch this. I tend to overthink things, so I also thought about how many of us throw our donations at the less fortunate as if it would take too much time to get a little closer. Thanks for sharing this.
ReplyDeleteWow. I've actually seen this video a few times, but it never moved me as much as it did now, within the context of your post. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteP.S. Saw your comment re having received the book. Glad it arrived safely!
Oh, wow. That was so touching. I'm going to have to share it over at my blog. Thanks for posting. :)
ReplyDeletewords are living.
ReplyDeletethe cookies on this blog look
oh so yummy.