Day 17
Monday, March 22
The Way Through Cynicism/Sacrasm
“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.”I learned that saying growing up...and now that I am older, I have found it to be even more inaccurate. Have you ever said a word or perhaps heard a word that has scarred you (or those around you)? Maybe it was a joke (or perhaps a statement) where the intentions were meant to be humorous, but it came across harshly. The right thing—said in the wrong way—is the wrong thing. I recall a moment where I was around a group of people that were not really saying things the right way, and there was an individual that spoke up about the weight of our words...specifically sarcastic words. She then began to explain the meaning of sarcasm (or potentially a better term could be“scarcasm”). The word sarcasm means “to tear flesh”—yikes! How then can we make it through today without leaving a trail of torn “flesh” behind? Well, scripture gives us an alternate route; the way through sarcasm and cynicism by following the way of gentleness. Solomon writes in Proverbs 15:1, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Gentleness has the ability to turn someone in a completely different way. Which way are people turning when you are speaking? If they are heading toward anger or hurt, check your words. Our words must be laced with gentleness. Rather than tearing, our words must mend.
-Jay Recto
Bible Reading for the Day:
Think and Act:
1. What do you think is the reason we use sarcasm when we speak?
2. Make a list of hurtful words or phrases that you tend to use. Replace them with ones that mend.