As a writer, I understand the power of words. I guess we all have been either hurt by an unkind comment, or uplifted by a thoughtful one at some point. Certainly with all the attention given to bullying these days, we should all have that on our radar.
I remember when I was in high school I always believed I had no musical talent, but one day I was singing, believing myself to be alone, and was overheard by a younger student who said I "sounded good." Never happened before, and I began to rethink my abilities. You just never know how a stray comment will affect someone.
With that in mind, I'd like to share a poem I wrote when my kids were little. (Be prepared to get some poetry now and again on this site!)
The Garden
There is a garden in the heart
One tended with such care
The seeds of words the heart has heard
May grow and flourish there.
Here the blooms of tenderness
Are seeded by the winds of grace.
Deep and strong our roots may grow
When nourished in this sacred place.
Such fertile soil lies in the heart
Of every child of tender years -
The careless word, the chance remark
May sow the thorns of future fears.
There is a garden in the heart.
If you are one who scatters seed
Remember this - the garden grows
Both the flower and the weed.
--- Mary Mager
Just a little food for thought.....
Until next time!