Many years ago, a mentor of mine, who was also a librarian, said, “Sometimes, all we have are words.”  I remember thinking about that statement in different ways, trying to figure out all the possibilities of what she might have meant.  In all communication, choosing just the right word(s) is a tremendous challenge.

Sometimes, words are so powerful that just a few of them can be capable of causing great things to happen.  The proper words of a commander to his/her troops or a coach to her/his team can rouse them into action and even heroic deeds.  Words can indeed be mighty forces.

Words, when spoken softly to a baby or a friend or spouse can be capable of soothing pain or easing fear, expressing love, or all three.  Strength is shown in different ways according to their purpose. Vocabulary is important, but the feeling attached to them is what gives them their true significance.

Words can be spoken or written or inferred by other words.  That is reason enough to choose wisely.  Sometimes unspoken words are the most significant.  

Written words, especially, must be selected carefully.  Once written, if words are in any way ambiguous, then their meaning is up to the reader to decide.  This is not a good idea, if one wants to be clearly understood. Everything that is written, has an audience to be considered. And words, once written or spoken, cannot be taken back.

When one speaks to an audience, the clarity of words are of utmost importance.  The journey of words, whether seen through the eye or heard by the ear can be full of pitfalls. That is why proofreaders are employed by newspapers and publishers and why professional listeners are needed as well.

Whatever one wants to say or write, or infer, the truth is, words are all we have with which to do it.  I have always loved words and relish the act of learning new ones everyday.  Maybe that’s why I love writing and reading and composing so much. Each of us has our own unique way to use words.  And there are enough words to go around. Just ask George and Charles Merriam. Ask Noah Webster. They ought to know!