Words...words....

I'm speaking at a Women's retreat this weekend.  I've never done a full 3 day speaking engagement before so of course I'm processing carefully all that needs to be done.  When I tell people that I have to speak for 4 hours (total time in 3 days) and that I want to be sure I've prepared enough material,  I seem to get the same response.  Laughter.  Then a quick "Oh, my goodness you'll do just fine."  Just to be on the safe side I've asked a few people lately..."Hey, am I one of those blathering idiots that annoys the dickens out of everyone with incessant talking?"  Thankfully the consensus is no...even my husband reassures me I'm not "that" person.  Engaging people and hearing about their lives is one of my passions.  I so enjoy a good cup of coffee where I can get to know someone at a deeper level.  Did you notice I said I enjoy "HEARING" about their lives. I'm not just JENerally Speaking I'm also JENerally Listening too.  Having said that I do love to encourage with words.  Life is not pleasant for so many in one way or another.  A listening ear and  time, 'speaks' volumes to people more than words can sometimes.  I'm also a firm believer that if you enjoy the gift of gab....then use it ...and use it well.  Use your words to bless....use them to love people....use them to encourage and uplift.  It doesn't mean you can't ever disagree or have opposing opinions...but use your speech as a tool for bringing light into situations.  Words are powerful. By no means do I have this mastered.  I still say plenty of junk.  I still need the proverbial duct tape every now and then...or hey maybe the real stuff wouldn't be such a bad idea.  In closing...(see I'm prepping for my speaking this weekend) I happen to love this verse in  Proverbs 12:25 An anxious heart weighs a person down, but a kind word, cheers them up.  Pretty simple in my book...help a person who's heart is anxious.  Speak some kindness into their lives...and if you buy the coffee that's even better.  Who doesn't like nice words and a good cup of joe?