The Sacred Weight of Our Words

“Choose your words with reverence.” This profound statement by Florence Scovel Shinn invites us to consider the power and significance of our language. In a world where words can easily slip from our lips without thought, Shinn urges us to approach our speech with a sense of sacredness. The stakes are high; our words not only reflect our inner thoughts but also shape our reality and influence those around us. By choosing our words carefully, we can cultivate a more harmonious existence and foster deeper connections with others.

Delving deeper into this notion, we recognize that words are not mere tools of communication; they are vessels of intention and energy. Each word carries a vibration that can uplift or diminish, heal or harm. In the New Thought tradition, which Shinn embodies, there is a profound understanding that our thoughts and words create our experiences. Thus, the reverence we apply to our language can transform our lives and the lives of those we touch. This teaching invites us to reflect on the responsibility we hold in our daily interactions and the potential for our words to serve as instruments of love and truth.

The image / the metaphor

At first glance, the imagery in Shinn's quote is simple yet evocative. The act of choosing words suggests a deliberate and thoughtful process, akin to selecting precious stones for a piece of jewelry. The verb “choose” implies agency and intention, highlighting that we are not passive recipients of language but active participants in its creation. The term “reverence” adds a layer of depth, suggesting that our words should be treated with the utmost respect, as if they were sacred offerings to the world.

Going deeper into this metaphor, we can envision our words as seeds planted in the fertile soil of consciousness. Just as a gardener tends to their plants with care, we must nurture our language, ensuring that it is imbued with positivity and love. When we speak with reverence, we are not only honoring our own truth but also acknowledging the interconnectedness of all beings. This perspective encourages us to recognize that our words have the power to cultivate beauty or chaos in the world around us.

In the speaker's tradition

Florence Scovel Shinn was a pivotal figure in the New Thought movement, which emphasizes the power of the mind and the importance of positive thinking. Central to this tradition is the concept of “affirmation,” which aligns closely with Shinn’s call for reverence in our words. Just as the Buddhist concept of “dharma” speaks to the right way of living and speaking, Shinn’s teaching encourages us to align our language with our highest ideals. This alignment fosters a sense of integrity and authenticity, allowing us to express our true selves while contributing positively to the collective consciousness.

In her seminal work, “Your Word Is Your Wand,” Shinn elaborates on the idea that our words are powerful tools for manifestation. She draws parallels to the biblical notion of “the Word” as a creative force, echoing the sentiment found in the Gospel of John: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God.” This connection underscores the sacredness of language, inviting us to recognize that our spoken words can shape our reality and influence the world around us in profound ways.

Living the teaching

Consider a modern scenario where this teaching resonates deeply: a workplace meeting where tensions run high. In such moments, the choice of words can either escalate conflict or foster collaboration. By approaching our speech with reverence, we can choose to express our thoughts with clarity and compassion, creating an atmosphere of respect and understanding. This conscious choice not only enhances our professional relationships but also sets a tone for a more harmonious workplace culture.