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Newsletter Volume 3 - October 24, 2001
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September 11, 2001 will never leave our memories. Yet the good of our country depends on our ability to return to our normal lives. But why settle for normal, when we've learned we're capable of so much more? In response to the tragedy, we've seen the depths of our compassion. In many ways, we've become better Americans and kinder human beings. This doesn't have to fade away.
Every word we speak offers a chance to keep the good alive. Let's work together to create a better normal.
Irwin Katsof
Executive Director of WordsCanHeal.org
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Quote of the Week
"In the use of words, quality is more important than quantity."
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Q: Which child do you think is most likely to become an architect?
The floor was covered with toys. Jeremy sat in the middle of his vast empire. There was an airport made of Legos, sky scrapers made of blocks, and a baseball stadium made from an old cardboard box. Cars of every shape and size sat waiting for Jeremy's little hand to take them to their destination.
There was a knock on the door and Jeremy's mother walked in. "Jeremy!" she said, "This is the best city you've ever made! You are so creative!" Jeremy beamed with pride. His mother continued, "Tell me about it, and then clean it up so we can eat dinner."
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Amy put the last block on the top of a very tall building. She inspected her little town. Rows of houses were lined up in a repeating pattern of colors. There was a park with little plastic trees, a pond, and little people walking everywhere. Amy had made the playground with Popsicle sticks.
Amy's mother came into the room. "Amy!" she said, "I cannot believe the mess that you've made! You are so careless!" Amy looked sullen. Her mother continued, "Clean up this disaster right away and come eat dinner."
Choose the words that you say carefully, their effects can change someone's life.
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Tip of the Week: At Work
We often feel like victims of circumstance. Our boss yells at us or our co-worker acts thoughtlessly. But we actually have more control over our circumstances than we think. If you sincerely compliment your boss's tie, he will be less apt to speak harshly to you. If you tell your co-worker how much you appreciate her kindness, she will be more likely to act thoughtfully. There are some circumstances we can't do anything about, but many times, kind words can make all the difference to our own happiness.
More Tips for At Work
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Tip of the Week: At Home
For the average frenzied household, taking the time to say things nicely takes far too much effort. "My kid knows I love him, I don't have time to monitor every word I say!" But most of us can remember a seemingly innocuous comment made to us. "You're not as pretty as your sister, but looks aren't the only thing that's important." Or, "Why can't you be more athletic like your brother?" Words have the power to echo forever -- make them good ones.
More Tips for At Home
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