By Les Ferguson, Jr.
Columnist

Writing is challenging and enjoyable for me. It’s challenging to write something that invokes
pleasure, introspection, or even drawing the proverbial line in the sand. Crafting words that grip
the imagination or capture attention is akin to painting a picture, and the creative process is
both enjoyable and fulfilling.
I love writing, not so much academic endeavors like research papers or reports as writing to
inspire or encourage. Because words have such power, they have been one of the best tools in
my toolbox.
Over the years, I've written for several newspapers and an online magazine. I'm grateful for the
publishers allowing me to share every week. Six years ago, my first and only book was
published (although I hope to remedy that one-book-wonder soon).
Based on my experience as a writer and a preacher who is always crafting a sermon, here’s an
essential thought that every writer, communicator, husband, wife, parent, and politician must
know: words matter. Before you even consider tone, attitude, or demeanor, words matter.
To speak truth or write clearly means that words matter. This means I must choose the words I
use carefully. Not only do I need to have a good understanding of my own words, but I also
need to be cognizant of how my readers or listeners hear them.
Words change meanings over time. Contemporary slang uses words in different ways. Case in
point: have you ever heard the phrase “no cap”? To my listening ears, that means you don’t
have a cap with you — and maybe the sun is out, and you need one. But, to a specific
demographic, “no cap” means no lie.
Go figure. No, on second thought, don't. You might spin your wheels for a while trying to
understand how we got there or not.
This is to say that no matter your profession or role in life, it pays to be word-conscious and
mindful of how you use words. Your words can tear down or build up.
Finally, the question might be, how do you want to be remembered? As an encourager or a
discourager? Do you want to be seen as a positive-Paul or a negative-Nellie? (No offense to any
Nellies out there).
“Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.”
(Proverbs‬ 16‬:24‬ NLT‬)

Choose your words wisely—with them, you have great power.
Have a great week!