I didn’t use an excuse, but I remember when I was eleven or twelve, one of the girls used to follow me around.

Whatever I did, she did, whatever I had to say about something, she had the same or similar comment. Wherever I went, she found a way to go also. Finally, I became fed up and said some mean things to her.

As a result, she cried and said she liked me and wanted to be like me. I felt like sinking in a hole. Because I said hurtful things to her, I lost what might have become a good friendship. She never followed me after that.

Because I experienced the hurt I caused her, I made it my business to be aware of what I say and do from then on, and I still make it my business to be mindful that others have feelings and watch what I say and do.

Too often, we are so concerned with what we want to say that we fail to realize the damage we could cause someone else. The book of Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” Your tongue can do more harm than any weapon. Remember that the next time you start to say something to someone in the heat of anger.

Until next time, stay safe, and keep the faith.