Loose Lips Sink Ships

During World War II a common saying was, "Loose lips might sink ships."  The slogan was created during a campaign reminding people how important it was to mind what we say.  Our words could result in unintended and dire consequences.  Lives could be lost.

Very serious indeed.  "Loose lips sink ships."

For me, this slogan serves as a reminder about my word choices today.  Words have power, regardless of the children's rhyme...sticks and stones hurt, but we can use words to hurt ourselves or use them as the scaffolding of our thoughts and ideas and then as the bricks with which we build our lives.  Words shape our perception.

I often catch myself saying things like how "good" I was today because I exercised, or how "bad" I was because I hit the vending machine instead of the apple sitting on my desk.  Oh, I'll be "better" tomorrow!  Of course, this "always" happens...

I call this failspeak. It's so pervasive, it's amazing how often I use it.

But wait!  I have good news!  I'm aware that I'm using these words.  I know, it might not seem like much, but just being aware of the way I speak means I can change the words I use...change the power I wield.  Change my perception.

Abracadabra! Magic words.

Instead I can say I "chose" a different path today, or I "listened" to myself when I made this choice.  I can ask questions instead of make pronouncements about my choices: why did I do this today?  How did it make me feel?  How does doing that instead make me feel? Instead of a mother scolding a sulky and defeated child (also me!) I become the compassionate mother, enfolding the hurt and disappointed child in my arms (oh yes! much better!).  

Instead of fearing what I might become I love what I am. No forgiveness needed. No secular sin committed.

Divine Mother, take me in your loving arms and sooth my hurts so that I might see my true desires within my wounded heart.  Hold my hand and guide me over the rough stones that fall in my path.  Gently direct me toward loving self-forgiveness and clear sight. Amen.

Majeeda Rosa