Word Power Poem by Stephen Hayles

Language is a system of words that we use
They can build up and nurture or cut down and abuse
Words come from letters jumbled and dropped into place
They can warm and comfort or be a slap in the face

I used to use words to cut and to sting
Then I discovered the most incredible thing
When I shot barbs intending to harm
I found that my soul was never quite calm

Casting insults and digs at people we know
Seems to inhibit our own energy flow
We think it quite smart and the real deal
Never taking time to see how they feel

Next time you’re tempted to run down a mate
Recognise your folly before it’s too late
We are all in this life and interconnected as one
They too are someone’s father, brother or son

How does it feel when one of your own
Is the brunt of a complaint or somebody’s moan
Treat all that you meet with a smile or a grin
Let their true light shine and don’t make it dim

The next person you meet I challenge you all
Make a real effort to help them stand tall
Life is no contest you don’t win or lose
The result of your life is the words that you choose.

If thoughts can be things and words make us think
Imagine the power of dialogue and the potential of ink
Wars have been started and many lives lost
For the sake of a few wrong words carelessly tossed

Be clear in your intent and precise with your speech
For the words that are used, you know not whom they reach
Give up your whispers, don’t speak out of school,
The one that starts rumours and gossip is considered a fool

Talk about others in a positive way
It’s not them, but your character that’s on display
A kind word here and knowing thought
Is a small price to pay but a great life can be bought

So if things are what you want, to have and to hold
Think big with you projects, step out and be bold
All is possible with deep thought and persistence
But the real magic starts, by speaking it, into existence