Hard words to say?
I typically listen to the radio when driving, but if advertisements or commentary take the place of music, I become a station surfer. However, this past week, before I could change the dial to seek music, the announcer posed this question.
Do you know the three hardest things for humans to say?”
Well…that caught my attention, so I listened. Surprisingly, the DJ got right to the point and announced the first two “hard to say” challenges:
The Number 1 hardest statement for humans? Yep, you probably guessed it.
I’m sorry.
We know this one’s tough, don’t we? Of course, some folks solve the difficulty by NEVER apologizing. Others might hedge and mumble and finally sputter out a weak “I’m sorry.” Then there are those that attack based on the premise, “The best defense is a strong offense” so they make the other person feel like it’s their fault. Therefore, no apology is necessary.
Number 2 hard statement?
I love you.
Hmmmm….I hadn’t thought this one would be so hard. Many families seem to have no difficulty expressing their love for one another. But, sometimes people say the words with no meaning behind it. Others are so good at showing their love that perhaps they believe words aren’t necessary. Don’t actions speak louder than words? Although, perhaps you agree with me that it’s wonderful to hear those special words, “I love you” from those we love.
Would you agree with these first two choices of “hard phrases”? Do you struggle to speak the words–“I’m sorry” or “I love you”?
Meanwhile, on the radio, the announcer decided it was time for audience input. What is Number 3? He asked listeners to call in and guess.
My guess? “I was wrong.” (Admitting we’re wrong is tough, don’t you think?)
But, I was wrong! (pun intended).
Number 3?
I need help!
I didn’t see that one coming, but after a little pondering, I agree. By seeking help, we are announcing our weaknesses or lack of ability to accomplish a task. Who wants to admit to that?
Do you agree that these are challenging statements for us to make?
In many situations, I believe these are difficult words to verbalize. But, we can seek help (no pun intended this time). The Bible shares much wisdom that is applicable to difficult circumstances.
Saying that we are sorry…
What are the reasons we should apologize?
If we’ve wronged someone, spoken in anger, made a mistake or caused heartache or pain, we should admit our error, apologize and ask forgiveness. Sometimes that’s easier said than done.
By admitting our mistake, apologizing and asking for forgiveness, we are seeking peace. Jesus bestowed a special blessing on peacemakers. But, extending forgiveness after receiving an apology also can be a challenge. Do we find ourselves wanting to hold on to our anger and not forgive?
Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called children of God. Matthew 5:9
Telling others we love them…
By providing us with the ability to love and receive love, God shared an awesome gift with us. Isn’t the Bible a beautiful source to reveal God’s love for us?
Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 1 John 4:7, 9,11.
Love is a verb. We show by our actions when we love, but our loved ones also want to hear those words–I Love You!
Asking for help…
I lift up my eyes to the mountains–where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. I will not let your foot slip–he who watches over you will not slumber. Psalm 121:1-3
It’s often hard to ask for help–from others or from God, but remember–Our God is always ready to answer our call for help.
Wishing you a blessed week, my friends–filled with kindness, peace, and love.
I agree with these hard sayings for sure. How about another one: “You were right.”
Oh how all of these require a humble spirit, one that opens ourselves up to others. Thanks for your post.
Oh, yes…if we have to say “you are right”, that means we were wrong! That’s an ouch. So thankful that we have Jesus as our guide to make our way easier when we have to own up to our imperfections.
I actually think “I need help” is my #1 hardest thing to say. I was taught not to ask people to do what you can do for yourself, and you can do anything you put your mind to. That pretty much eliminates asking for help! But I know, in my spiritual mind, it’s not a very biblical approach to life. God directs us to do many things for one another… which means I need to allow others to do things for me. It’s not easy!
I was raised that way, too, Michelle and I still find it tough to admit my “weakness” and ask for help. But, seeking God’s help or that of our supportive believers is perhaps a sign of strength–like having the courage to submit our will to God. Wishing you blessings on the journey.
Thank you. Saying I’m sorry and I love you come easy. It’s I need help that’s hard, I don’t like to bother people.
I understand, Jann! When we’re taught to be independent, it’s tough to say “I need help.” But, when we submit our requests to God through prayer and petition, I believe He sometimes answers by guiding us to reach out to others for help. I’m grateful for those “helpers.” Thanks for stopping by. Wishing you blessings, my friend.
“I need help” is a really hard one in this society especially. We’re so independent, and no one wants to look weak. It’s hard for me, too, but as we share our weaknesses, it brings relationship. It’s so needed!
Isn’t it strange that there’s such an extreme between being strong and independent and having the courage to ask for help? Or maybe not. After all, we can only develop our fullest relationship with Jesus by completely submitting ourselves to Him. Those of us who are with Jesus on this journey through life ought not to have such a hard time with “Please, I need help,” yet we do! It’s important to recognize the courage and strength in those words and especially in the all important words, “My, Lord God, I submit my will to you.” Thanks for stopping by, Heather. Wishing you a blessed day!
tThese are hard to say, but in my experience, the good thing about them is that they get easier the more you say them–especially “I love you.”
You are right, Carole! I didn’t hear those sweet words (I love you) very often as a child so I’ve always tried to let my family and loved ones know how special they are. Isn’t it awesome that God gave us the gift of love?