I walked through a large portion of my life with the desire to leave a soft spot for people to associate with. I, in person, was a landing-place.

My high school year books, filled with student signatures, held a common theme, “Such a nice (sweet) girl.”

I believe being loving and gentle has its place in life, but it does not fit in when you simply want to say no, or when you want to get your point across.

Using words in your writing or speech, such as: probably, nearly, almost, practically, not quite, sort or kind of, as good as, or just about…leaves what you intend to say in a semisolid position, as if your words are floating about in billowy clouds that have no substance.

Solid consists of saying what you mean, leaving no questions asked. Solid, in writing, does not leave the reader wondering. The reader grasps your firm point and glides through your fluent story without a snag. Solid, in life applications, puts you in the position of having control of your own life.

Which would you rather have? Spongy sloppy ground that leaves people unsure of what you are really writing (or saying), or believable words that emit from a heart that has empathy, care and grace as its forefront?

Closely observe what you say and write, and make it a habit to delete the words that undermine the strength of your writing or yourself.

“Be impeccable with your word. Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.”  ~ Miquel Angel Ruiz