As we watch the news today, I think most of us scratch our heads at how much anger and hatred is coming out of the media. The amount of anger, cynicism, and hate spilling from our screens can be overwhelming.
Thankfully, we now have more control over what we consume—social media, podcasts, and independent outlets give us the power to “click” our way toward our version of the “truth”.
So, as we pick up the pieces and try to re-arrange what we all used to call “normality”, the question remains: Can we still create a world where conversations are centered on love, kindness, and hope?
I read somewhere that “words are like bullets”. This African proverb emphasizes the impact and lasting nature of words. Once spoken, words—like bullets—can’t be taken back. They pierce, the hit, they wound, and can leave damage that lingers for years. But what if we flipped the analogy? What if, instead of bullets, our words were like water, that can be nourishing?
Water nourishes. It takes a seed in fertile soil and, with patience, turns it into a thriving plant. Words can do the same. They can help someone grow into their fullest self, nurture their confidence, and encourage resilience. Just as water sustains life, positive language can sustain hope.
The challenge is that in our current political and cultural climate, negative words seem to carry more weight. Demeaning comments dominate headlines. (The 2024 election results revealed that we took reality TV’s lessons to heart – Opinion). Unfortunately, people pay more attention to «negative» harmful language. So how do we stay the course? …with some patience and persistence, I believe. Just as watering a seed in fertile ground requires patience and discipline, using positive words consistently also requires sustained effort and intentionality. And while the results may not be immediate, the growth is real.
This idea of using positive words all the time is nothing new. Educators have long understood this. Teachers use positive language as the foundation for learning and personal growth. As children’s book author Alicia Ortego notes, the words parents use can shape a child’s self-esteem and emotional resilience. Encouraging phrases plant the belief that challenges can be overcome with effort and determination.
Science backs this up. Research shows that positive words can literally change brain chemistry—releasing feel-good hormones, lowering stress, and even strengthening the immune system. Smiling Mind Blog points out that something as simple as choosing kind, affirming language in daily conversations can lift moods and improve overall well-being.
That’s why I’m offering not a white flag of surrender, but a white flag of peace—a commitment to be mindful of how we speak to one another. Let’s choose our words as if they were water: refreshing, life-giving, and sustaining.
And in times like these, choosing nourishment might be the most radical act of hope we have left. That every word we use be building blocks and columns of hope, kindness and empathy.