Submitted by Andrea R Nierenberg

Never Assume

We know what happens when we do. This is another reason I believe in biting my tongue and waiting before speaking. You could lose a sale, talk yourself out of something already sold, or make a fool of yourself. Someone once gave me a sign that I hang proudly above my desk: “The most successful people have teeth marks on their tongue”.

Learn by Listening-Don’t Talk Just to Talk

A man I respect told me his philosophy about the power of the tongue. He cites a passage in the New Testament which described the effect that our little tongues have on our lives. He tells the story this way:

“Take ships for example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered where the pilot wants to go by a very small rudder. Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, yet makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.”

Think of this before saying something without considering the repercussions of what and how it will affect someone else. We can all go to school on this thought every day of our lives and learn valuable lessons about creating a better and sweeter environment-with thoughtful tongues.