Sometimes you cannot keep a promise. Simple as that. Things happen. Life happens. Sometimes an event or situation is out of your control. In the scope of what we can control, words, should be near the top. Choose kind words when possible. Choose truthful words. Be polite. Be uplifting and encouraging more than the opposite. Be firm. That one is a work in progress for me. I used people pleasing words. Always. But, in leadership, firm, kind words are better than questions with no boundary. I have been reminded more and more lately by the words others have chosen to say to me that I need to choose mine more carefully. You know, it’s like looking in the mirror sometimes. If we take how others treat us and the result of those words/actions and use it as a period of reflection and repentance we can grow in a good way. If we dwell on the hurt that was caused, we grow seeds of bitterness and offense. We become shallow and angry and hard-hearted before we even realize it. Our words can build up or tear down. Our words can praise God and curse others. (Oh dear….) Have you ever said or been told, “you’ll wanna eat with that mouth later!” Words can make or ruin someone’s day. I ask you today to give it some prayer and some reflection. What or who did you build up or tear down today? And how can you do it differently tomorrow…?