Words that Build Up

Can you remember one of your most inspirational memories at Camp Huawni?

One of my favorite Camp moments happens frequently each year during Run for the Roses, which is a huge relay race where campers and counselors pass a baton as they run a big running race across campus. Nearly every year there is one team that really gets smoked and finished last.

I will still never forget the first time I saw a counselor running next to the last runner for the last place team, cheering them on to finish strong, even though the race was practically over. When the camper crossed the finish line, their counselor gave them a big high five and hug, affirming their effort to finish strong. This was definitely a win-win moment.

If anyone has every read the book "7 Habits of Highly Effective People" then you know what a win-win is. A win-win looks for a positive outcome for all parties involved as opposed to one person winning and one person losing. In Run for the Roses, even 4th place got the satisfaction of winning. Why? Because one counselor made it their mission to encourage their camper verbally, even when the race seemed to be over.

You know- what comes out of our mouth is a lot more powerful than we could ever imagine. James 3:4-5 reads, "Or take ships for example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot want to go. Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts." James goes on to say that what comes out of your mouth "sets the whole course of his life...". Can what we say really have that much impact on our life, both good and bad?

In my experience, the answer is definitely yes. Have you ever been around a positive person that's fun to be around and always complimenting others? Likewise, have you ever been around a person who is negative all the time and puts down other people? What is coming out of our mouths each day?

May the Lord bless your words that you share daily and bless your week!