I learned to appreciate the value of words at a young age, devouring books that were way beyond my reading level and always reading enough books over the summer to win my free personal pan pizza every year. When waves of abuse came and my juvenile brain had nothing else it could control, I could always retreat into my words.
My words were my lifeline.
When I left the military with PTSD that wouldn’t let me bear the thought of a career in the medical field, I leaned on my words and a career as a copywriter in the perpetually hot/cold world of advertising and marketing. From ghostwriting books to penning catchphrases for major brands, words paid the bills and pulled me out of debt.
My words were my lifeline.
When I began the journey to become a better person than the examples I grew up with, I learned something that took some adjustment: My words are less important than my word. I can offer lush thoughts and prayers, or spout on about my opinions on the next major news event, but the words are not what I will be remembered for.
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Maya Angelou
When I had nothing else, I had my words and I had my word. I strive to be a man of my word because I want others to know I am always willing to put in the work to ensure honor my commitments. Holding fast to keeping my word also shows that I honor and respect others. It’s one of the biggest factors that will keep me from making a commitment when I know my schedule might make it difficult for me to honor it, so when I commit to something, it’s a good indicator that I have carefully considered it first and placed a priority on it – and on you.
My word is my lifeline.
Love,
