Have To Say Something - Have Something To Say

The subject invites self-reflection – to discern where one often belongs.

The learning to speak starts how language sounds before learning to speak. From the days of the cry and coo, to the sounds of grunt, gurgle, squeal laugh and different crying sounds is a beginning. By the time a child turns 5, they usually have a 2,500-word vocabulary and talk in complete grammatically correct sentences. Speaking skills continue to be developed through a series of stages – developing into the school years and adulthood.   

To say or speak is to tell somebody something, using words. It is about expressing an opinion on something or when in authority or right to decide something. Today’s generation speak differently, shaped by the rapid evolution of language through technology, social media, and culture. This constant reinvention of words creates gaps between generations but also reflects language’s natural growth. A word like "wall" once referred to a physical barrier, but in a social media context, it refers to a profile's homepage. Similarly, "flexing" has replaced "bragging".

Beyond the changes in human language lies something unchanging – the divine guidance on how speech should be used.

Scripture’s teachings have to be remembered or reminded as they provide extensive guidance how to speak wisely, truthfully and graciously and warns against destructive and unwholesome talk. It is true that a person's speech is a reflection of one’s character, their inner state and provides comprehensive guidance on the ethical use of words. It distinguishes between mere empty talk and communication that leads to spiritual growth, stressing the importance of speaking truthfully, thoughtfully, and with humility.

Those who have to say something often speak without truth, necessity or kindness. Often what is said by such category people is from a place of hate, jealousy, anger or insecurity, symptoms of a deeper psychological or personality-based trait. What is said to others is often a need to work on it themselves. The kind who ‘have to say something’ find great pleasure in provoking reactions. Some people talk to make themselves feel better by putting others down or by feeling validated through the interaction. Politically also often it is done wrong. Democracy is the government by discussions but it is only effective if you can stop people from simply talking.

Those who have something to say, speak when words are better than silence and ensure it is true, it is necessary and it is kind. For them every word spoken should heal and not hurt, they understand words once spoken can be forgiven but not forgotten. They speak in such a way that others want to listen to you. Listen in such a way that they love to speak to you. Often an important part of a conversation is the part that was not spoken.

It must be known spoken words can cause spiritual harm by corrupting the soul. Cultivating an inner spiritual relationship with God requires that we become ever more refined in our awareness and in our actions. A common thing as swearing affirms negative harsh attitude towards others, a serious spiritual seeker must well leave behind.

Those who do not Savor the Word of the Shabad, do not love the Naam, the Name of the Lord. They speak insipidly with their tongues, and are continually disgraced. O Nanak, they act according to the karma of their past actions, which no one can erase. SGGS Ang791

Ultimately every word spoken either distances or draws to the divine. Sweet speech, positive thinking, kindness towards others, goodwill toward everyone, forgiveness, and humility are attitudes and actions that will help one refine their consciousness.