Words Matter

Words Matter

Sitting on my zero-turn lawnmower is where I do my best thinking. What was on my mind after finishing my latest grass cutting were several comments that I’ve left publicly over the past few years that, in retrospect, would have been better left unsaid. Assessing my...
The Power of Words

The Power of Words

Words can have amazing power, so long as we grant it to them. In a story familiar by now, a popular Catholic priest in Arizona had to resign when someone realized he had been using one wrong word when performing baptisms. Andres Arango had served three different...
On Speaking and Keeping Silent

On Speaking and Keeping Silent

The conversation was flowing as usual at a dinner with friends when suddenly my friend grew very angry. I did not see this outburst coming. He asked a question about the recent national election, which I responded to in a very polite manner. He accused me of a lack of...
Emerging Voices | Harsh Words Reap Consequences

Emerging Voices | Harsh Words Reap Consequences

The U.S. has had a new president for just over 100 days. We have heard the new priorities and have grown accustomed to the new rhythms and cycles of news. Instinctively, we remember the events of the past four years, and even the terms before that, and do the work of...