Words

As we prepare to ring in the New Year, some of us take inventory of the past year.  Wins and losses are often reviewed in an attempt to learn from them, to start the new year feeling a bit wiser.  Feeling smarter or, at the very least, better prepared for the year ahead of us.

2011 was the year of words for me.  Words attempting to be understood in Puerto Rico.  Spanish words attempting to explain sentiments to a grandmother who didn't always seem to understand (or at least acting as such).  English words that helped me secure not one, but two jobs.  Words of loneliness expressed to my loved ones.  Words of encouragement in return.  Words put into a text message, praying that they'd get to Japan as safely and warmly as they were sent.  Words of apologies followed by words of much needed forgiveness.  Words of friendship and words of true love.  Kind words that change the tone of brash ones in hard conversations.  Words read aloud, recorded and sent in the mail in an effort to remind the kids back home just how much their Titi loves them.  Words heard through car speakers accompanied by melodies of bittersweet memories filled with what ifs and maybes.  Words heard on a Sunday morning offering clarity, hope, love and The Way.

When I was young, I was taught that sticks and stones could break my bones but words, well words would NEVER hurt me.  This year confirmed this childhood song to be a myth.  Words are one of the most powerful tools man has.  Words have the ability to sting.  No words can be like a punch in the gut and often lead to useless tension.  Empty words only offer hopelessness, falling to the floor as flatly as they leave your mouth.  There should always be something behind your words.   But which way will you choose to use your words this year? Hate and destruction or love and inspiration?

Happy New Year from Puerto Rico!!