Billy’s Words of Wisdom: The Study of Language
by | January 12th, 2008 | Comments (9)
topic: Billy's Words of Wisdom | No Tags
One kind word can warm three winter months. —Japanese proverb
Many of you may not know this, but I’m learning how to speak Japanese! That’s right — I have a lesson every day!
I’ve always known that words can give or take power and can cause action, but now, I’m learning more than ever before about how the same word can mean more than one thing. What a crazy thought, but it’s true. Even in your tone of voice, the meaning of a word can change.
This is why it is so important for all of us to take a moment to think (and think clearly) before we speak. Once the words come out, they’re heard, and their meaning is discovered. They cannot be taken back. We might apologize or change the meaning, but we’ve already spoken, and the words have been taken to heart.
So, from now on, let us all practice being slow to speak and quick to listen.
One of the things that I have always found to be true is that it is also not only what you say but how you say it. We all process words through our own unique filters which change based on what we are feeling in the moment. I always try to gauge where the other person is, and will adapt not only my words but sometimes the intention behind it, if I feel that the other person is in a place where they might not be receptive to what I have to say.
I agree, but I am finding the people around me to do the opposite, fast to speak and slow to listen. It’s like they have to “win” an argument or have the last word. Anyway, that’s great that you’ll learning new language. Let us know how that is going for you-is Japanese difficult?
I lived in Japan for 7 years and have studied Japanese for 8 years. It is difficult, but I love it! I am engaged to be married to my Japanese karate sensei. We have to overcome language barriers everyday. But it is definitely worth the studying and the effort. I have Billy and TaeBo to thank for keeping me in karate-ready shape, even when I can’t get to the dojo. My new hubby plans to open a dojo once he moves to America. I can’t wait! I love working out, whether it is TaeBo or karate. Good luck with your studies, Billy! Gambatte kudasai!
Slow to speak and quick to listen… that is sound advice, I need to adopt that into my personal philosophies. Thank you.
Hi Sir!
A Japanese lesson every day? that is awesome! I used to study Japanese in high school, but have not retained very much of it. I did enjoy what I learnt though. I really like the Japanese proverb ‘One kind word can warm three winter months’. Very true!
Thank you for the reminder to be slow to speak and quick to listen. Definitely something we all need to watch out for every day.
Love Neri =8o)
Excellent advice, Billy. James 1:19 says we need to be “Slow to speak, slow to anger and quick to listen”. My mom told me all the time when I was growing up…”If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all”. I will be 40 in 6 weeks and have finally learned these important lessons. LOL!
Listening is a great character trait and I aim to improve my listening skills every day. Every word that comes out of my mouth MUST be positive to my life and others. Thanks, Billy, and best wishes with your Japanese lessons!
Michael
Hmmm….Tis very true. We should be especially careful when speaking to children…one word said in anger can leave a lifetime emotional scar. I really need to practice this more in my life with those around me as well. Words are so powerful and can lift you up or break you down. Good Luck on learning Japanese….wow….that is awesome.
Great job on tackling Japanese! I liven in Nippon for 2 years and learned the language. . .I have since forgotten some of it, but still practice when I can. You have inspired me to brush up on it again!
I will have to work very hard at this. I am very busy and sometimes says things to my kids out of exhaustion. I wonder if I have tainted them for life? My 8 year old son often says “i know I know your life would be easier if I wasn’t here, why did you bother ask GOd for me? Thanks for the post Billy I will pay much closer attention.