MIDWEEK MESSAGE – March 26, 2025

Many spiritual practices are simple but not necessarily easy.  Why is it that sometimes, even with the best intentions, we don’t apply our spiritual principles in all areas of our lives? One such challenging area can be our speech.

Using the THINK method before we speak is a helpful way to prevent harm through our words.  I sometimes speak without considering the questions of the THINK method: “Is it true? Is it helpful? Is the intent good? Is it necessary? Is it kind?” At times, I may reflect on some of these, but not all.

I believe the best way to avoid speaking without THINKing is to pause before I speak, which, again, is not as easy as it seems. After pausing, if I determine that I cannot speak using THINK, it is better not to say anything than to say something hurtful or harmful. 

Words are powerful tools, and the adage, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never harm me,” is misleading. Words can be not only hurtful, but they cannot be taken back once spoken, causing harm to linger long after they have escaped our lips.  

The easier, softer way to avoid such harm is to THINK before speaking.

Quote of the Week

“Someone who is about to admonish another must realize within himself five qualities before doing so [that he may be able to say], thus:

“In due season will I speak, not out of season. In truth I will speak, not in falsehood. Gently will I speak, not harshly. To his profit will I speak, not to his loss. With kindly intent will I speak, not in anger.”

“Vinaya Pitaka,” translated by F.S. Woodward