“For of all sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these, ‘It might have been.'” – John Greenleaf Whittier
I was reflecting today on how much I love and appreciate the written word. The possibilities and purposes of words woven together, creating a cohesive and fluid message, are endless. Words mark one of the most vital means of creating, maintaining, and nourishing relationships between people. And as the quote from John Greenleaf Whittier implies, it is the saddest thing when words of importance are left unsaid or unwritten.
For business, words are the voice of your company. Written words in business copy demonstrate your values, your intentions, and the importance of what you can offer to your customers. The picture of your business that these people glean from your descriptions can positively make or break your success and impact.
Words tell our deepest, most intimate stories. Words teach lessons of life and love and respect and character. They’re love notes between spouses. They are little drawings that we leave in our kids’ lunches for school. They are a brief text we send to a friend, just to say hello. Words are notes of thanks, of sympathy, of comradery.
Equally important, words are used to teach lessons that are not so pleasant to express. Words of conviction, words of truth. Words that others may not like hearing but are necessary nonetheless. If you’re like me (a bit of an introvert who pretty much hates conflict and would rather just say nothing) then this is no fun. But if you’re like me, you also know that sometimes doing the right thing just isn’t fun.
In these situations, the words to be said may not be easy to express, but we can all do our utmost to say such words in love toward one another. No matter the situation, words can still be used for good.
As a little backstory, Verity was named after the beautiful little adjective meaning “truth”–honesty, integrity, and that which is right. This was meaningful to me for various reasons, but mainly because truth and integrity are two powerful attributes that I want this little business venture to demonstrate.
In business, in blogging, in motherhood, and in life, I desire to share words and actions that are beautiful and uplifting.
So in honor of this, I’d be thrilled if you’d join me on social media and share your uplifting words for the month of June. These can be in the form of a blog post you write, a favorite quote you share, or a little saying that you love and cherish within your family. Jot it down, share with a fun picture, and tell us in the caption or in your blog post. Just use the hashtag #verilywrite, which literally means to “write in truth.” Words that are true and breathe life can be the best gift to those around us. How are you building people up in your little corner of the world and the web? I cannot wait to see!
Robin Williams said, “No matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change the world.” Let’s use our words to build people up, not tear them down. To share a message of hope and encouragement, not criticism and comparison. To make the most of each day, not waste the moments that could be our happiest.
Speak truth. Write truth. #verilywrite
