“The words of the tongue should have three gatekeepers: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary?” ~ Arabian Proverb
As a teacher I spend a lot of time thinking about language and how I communicate the material I want students to learn. The teachers whom I admire most are those who not only communicate clearly and succinctly but also eloquently and poetically. These are the lessons that stay with me long after the class is over.
So how do we know what to say? How do we figure out exactly the right words at exactly the right time? This quote that suggests using truth, kindness, and necessity as filters gives us three clear lenses through which to filter our words so that they have impact and resonance. Words are gifts we give to everyone who hears them. Words are tools; make them tools for goodness.
Christa Avampato 