“Words are but pictures of our thoughts.” — John Dryden
“Understanding is the heartwood of well-spoken words.” — The Buddha
“Raise your words, not voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder.”
One useful word is better than a thousand useless words.
Always be aware of how you are using the word. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to never-gossip-about-others about others.
Some questions to consider before you speak:
- Does this need to be said?
- Does this need to be said by me?
- Does this need to be said by me right now?
Before you speak, let your words pass through three gates:
- Is it true?
- Is it necessary?
- Is it kind?