What did you say?

By Nick Thomas

Did you know that on average, people speak 5 million words a day? And that at least two million of those words are the words “like” or “what”? It’s also noted that the most commonly used phrase is: “Does this outfit make me look hot?”

These are not actually real statistics, but I like to think that they’re somewhat accurate.

People talk to each other. Everyone knows that, right? But the question I’m asking is: are we thinking before we speak?

Many people that I know have the tendency to say things without thinking about how people are going to react to them. For example, if I were to say: “Man, you sure look ugly today!” or “Yo, you smell!” I have enough common sense to know that whomever I said that to would probably be pretty bummed to hear that.

Although the argument could be made that you were “just kidding” or that you don’t actually feel that way, the fact of the matter is, not everyone thinks like you do.

Words can hurt just as much as actions. It’s important to have an understanding of how people will react to what you have said or are going to say.

This is why it’s important to be kind. What harm has come from being kind to others? People like knowing that they are loved and cared about, so why is it so hard for us to express that?

I encourage you readers to reach out to someone. And instead of pointing out a flaw, or asserting your obviously correct opinion over theirs, give them a compliment. Say something that will instill a joyful attitude in them. Tell them you love them (unless you just met, then you might want to wait six to eight months).

Think before you speak and, if anything else, it might save you from getting punched in the face.

Nick Thomas is junior at Oklahoma Christian University.