Think before you speak

Words are a powerful thing. They can be soft and warm and something that makes us smile. They can also be sharp and painful and can take our breath away with hurt. I am reading too many stories, too often, of how someone’s words were hurtful. This needs to end.

There are children out there who have scars. Big scars, right in the middle of their chest. These are heart kids. They have met heart defects head on and conquered them. They are heart warriors. These kids have braved mighty storms of fear and uncertainty that many of us would run crying from. They have seen and experienced things that would keep you up at night.

Yet, there are people that call them freak. Weirdo. All because they have a scar on their chest.

Why? Because they look different? Is that a good reason? Of course not. How would you feel if I called you a freak for having a birthmark or red hair? You can’t help those things, yet you stand out because of them and people think that’s weird.

Then there are the Williams Syndrome kids. Friendly, outgoing, talkative, and kids who know no strangers. They love everyone and aren’t afraid to say it. They have adorable little button noses and beautiful starburst eyes. They also have medical problems. Some have heart problems, others have hearing problems. Some walk a little later, or learn to talk a little later. But that doesn’t hold them back from being amazingly smart and loving.

Yet, there are people who call them retarded. Stupid. All because they need hearing aids to hear, or because they wear glasses.

If I went around, calling every person who wears glasses stupid..wouldn’t someone speak up and say “Just because I’m wearing glasses doesn’t give you the right to judge me!”. Exactly. Don’t judge someone you don’t know. Don’t call kids names. And most importantly-THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK!