Words Frame your World

Dr. Masaru Emoto became well known for an experiment involving three jars filled with rice and water. He labeled the jars “Thank You,” “You're an Idiot,” and “Control.” For thirty days he spoke words that matched each label. His words were kind and thankful to the jar labeled “thank you.” His words were cruel and unkind to the jar labeled “you're an idiot.” He did not speak to the control jar.

At the end of 30 days the rice labeled “thank you” had begun to ferment and emit a strong, pleasant aroma. The jar labeled “you're an idiot” turned mostly black. The jar labeled “control” began to rot, turning a green-blue color. There is some discussion about the validity of the experiment and the controls that were used. But it still serves as a compelling illustration when viewed alongside ancient wisdom and modern psychology. Together, they point us toward an important truth: words matter.

We know that if you tell a child long enough “I hate you,” “you're stupid,” or some other form of devaluing words, that child will likely live up to those words. It's rare for someone to completely overcome those internalized messages without encouragement, support, or intentional work. Those words often become beliefs, and beliefs quietly shape identity, choices, and ultimately results.

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it and indulge it will eat its fruit and bear the consequences of their words.”

Many authors, leaders, and speakers have attempted to convey a similar understanding of the importance of guarding our mouth. “But the human tongue is a beast that few can master. It strains constantly to break out of its cage, and if it is not tamed, it will run wild and cause you grief.” by an unknown author. Or “Handle them carefully, for words have more power than atom bombs.” — Pearl Strachan Hurd.

When it comes to personal growth and achievement, the language you consistently use becomes the framework upon which your future is built. We may set a goal to get healthy and fit while constantly thinking and saying things that don't support that goal. “I just can't seem to get below this certain number.” “I guess I'll just have to accept this at my age.” “I've tried it all, nothing works.” Why set the goal in the first place if you plan to sabotage it with your words? Every statement either reinforces the person you're becoming or strengthens the person you're trying to leave behind.

In Hebrews 11:3 we read, “By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God.” The Greek word translated prepared carries the idea of putting something in order or fitting it together—much like framing a house before the walls, roof, and finishing touches are added.

Our words frame the invisible structure upon which our visible lives are built. And as we saw in the ancient proverb, it can be either negative or positive.

In our example of setting a goal to get healthy and fit, we need our words to build the framework for that goal. Perhaps something like “every day I get a little stronger and a little healthier.” And just like a child can be told over and over they are stupid, they could also be told over and over they can do anything, they're amazing, they're smart, they're wonderful!

Just as destructive words can become the framework for insecurity, affirming words can become the framework for confidence, resilience, and courage. Invisible words often produce very visible lives.

Every day you're building something with your words. Long before your actions produce visible results, your words are laying the framework beneath them. They reinforce what you believe about yourself, what you expect from life, and what you believe is possible.

Begin paying attention to the language you use. When you catch yourself speaking words that contradict the future you're hoping to create, pause and choose something better. You don't have to pretend everything is perfect or deny today's reality. Instead, choose words that move you toward the person you're becoming.

Because every house begins with a frame and every extraordinary life does too.