Actions speak with a deafening voice
By Carol C. Harder
The words we speak – plus the actions we take – have the potential to either encourage or hurt other human beings with which we come into contact.
Whether consciously or not, each one of us has, at one time or another, said or done something to offend or hurt someone else. Whether at our place of work, an athletic event, a social setting or any other place, conversations between close friends – or simple exchanges with people we meet or strangers – each interaction has the potential to make or break another person’s spirit.
Several years ago, at the Seattle (Washington) Special Olympics, nine contestants, all physically or mentally challenged in some way, took off from the starting line for the 100-yard dash.
All nine were on their way down the track when one boy stumbled on the asphalt, tumbled over a couple of times and began to ctry.
The other eight heard the boy’s sobs.
They all slowed down and looked back.
Then, they all turned around and went back – every one of them.
One little girl with Down Syndrome bent down and kissed the little boy on the cheek and said, “This will make it better.”
Then – all nine linked arms and walked the distance – crossing the finish line together.
Everyone in the stadium got to their feet and cheered – for several minutes.
People who experienced that moment first-hand share the story yet to this day.
Why?
Because, deep down, we all know one thing – what matters in life is more than winning for ourselves.
What matters in this life is helping others win, to have success – even if that means slowing down and changing our course – remembering that actions speak louder than words – and that actions speak with a deafening voice.