Words are not just words

Dear Daughters,

I write these words for your future selves, wanting to share some thoughts that have been forming for some time. It is a message I try to convey to you now, as well, as you grow into the people you will become.

Words are not just words.

Words have power.

They are an act of will.

They are an expression of a thought.

They are the physical manifestation of an intent to speak, the audible result of will.

They are thoughts given life, an act, which inspire others to further action.

Give care, my daughters, as you give life to your thoughts as words, for they have the power to harm, to cut, to wound.

Have hope, my daughters, as you give life to your thoughts as words, for they also have the power to help, to heal, and to lift up.

I will not tell you to ignore hurtful words. I will not tell you ‘sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.’

I will tell you that you are stronger than you may know.

You are stardust, the stuff of stars.

You are amazing, powerful, kind, smart and beautiful.

When you encounter the negative words, the harming, cutting and wounding words, know that you have the power of the universe coursing through your very being.

When you encounter the negative words and their bearers, know that you are loved beyond measure and that I am, and always will be, your advocate.

Know, my daughters, you alone define your worth.

Love,

Your Dad