Words are far more powerful than most of us understand. Whether we compliment or belittle, the words we use when we communicate with another person can stick with them for a lot longer than we may realize. Words are how we express our opinions, emotions and, unfortunately, a way to inflict pain on others.

So many kids have been bullied in school both physically and verbally. This is no secret in our society, but it is still happening. Even when you are out of school it seems like people still think it is ok to use hurtful words in order to make themselves feel better. Physical bullying is definitely a problem, but the after affects of verbal bullying can make a huge impact on the way the bullied person sees themselves. The words can also stay with that person for years after the bullying occurs.

Fortunately, I have never experienced what it feels like to be bullied, but I have had friends who were. I have seen how the verbal abuse affects their self-esteem and makes them feel worthless. The words that their peers use against them aren’t used to attack the outside, but what’s on the inside. They rip apart what makes them who they are, what makes them unique, what makes them a person.

Now I know that I’m not going to be able to change the world with just this article, but I’m going to try.

What if people learned to keep their hurtful comments in their heads instead of blurting them without thinking about how they will affect the other person. What if, instead of hurling insults, we handed out compliments, and actually meant them. Imagine how we could change the world if we were actually kind to one another with the words that we use and with our actions.

Loving words can have just a big of an impact on a person as hateful words. Giving someone a sincere compliment can stay with someone for just as long as spiteful comments. And lifting someone up feels so much better than putting them down. Knowing that you brightened a persons day just by something that you told them feels good. I know from experience that compliments can stick in your memory for a long time. I know how good it feels when someone gives you a sincere compliment.

Looking back, I wish I would have encouraged my friends who I knew were struggling. I now understand how impactful one word can be in a person’s life. Words can affect the soul of a person. They can change their heart for better or worse and should be used carefully.