Mr. Speaker, today, words travel farther and faster than ever, allowing them to outlive the moment. What comes out of a person's mouth has immediate impact, and those words are not harmless, but we all have said something we regret.
Our words create momentum for good or destruction. We think strength is proven by being blunt, direct or unfiltered. Proverbs 18 tells us, “The tongue has the power of life and death,” to build up or tear down. Angry words are sharp, prideful words are dismissive, and fearful words are defensive.
Wisdom produces measured, purposeful, helpful words, and understands that restraint or silence is not weakness. Deliberate words carry authority because they are chosen, not impulsive. Leadership is not volume; it is direction. A wise person uses their tongue to bring clarity, courage, correction and hope. They understand that speaking truth requires both conviction and care.
In this place and always, may our words express life.