“ … Words are powerful; take them seriously” (Matt. 12:36 MSG).
Several years ago, in a workshop for Christian Leaders and Speakers (CLASS), Christian communicator and author, Florence Littauer, taught us to ask ourselves two questions before standing in front of an audience to speak.
1. Do I have anything to say?2. Do people need to hear it?
So, I ask myself that question every time that I prepare to stand before an audience—whether it’s a group of writers, a church group, or class of college students.
As a writer and a writing instructor, I recognize the need for people to tell their stories. And I’ve seen lives change as they listen to other people share their life lessons, especially their faith stories. Passing along our faith and family stories also help us make sense of some of the crucial issues that we face in life.
As a Christian speaker, I know the importance of sharing personal stories with other women, particularly in a mentoring or discipleship relationship.
As a mother and grandmother, I also hope to record more of my faith and family stories for my children and grandchildren. My stories are my legacy to the next generation.
I believe in the power of story! And I love to encourage and instruct other people how to communicate their faith and family stories.
So, I want to ask you those same questions that Florence ask us at one of my first CLASSeminars.
Do YOU have anything to say? Do people need to hear it?
Photo/KarenJordan with Florence Littauer
What stories do you hope to pass down to the next generation?
Thanks for the reminder, Karen. Great questions, aren’t they? Those questions can make any speaker evaluate their words and make sure they choose them carefully. Words are powerful and, for sure, we want to make sure we are meeting the needs of our audiences when we speak. The audience could be one or thousands and we want our words to make a positive impact on every person who hears or reads them.
Great to hear from you, Linda! And yes, I believe these are two great questions for anyone to consider before they write or speak a word. Our words are powerful!!!