What Are Your Words?

Here are a few words of advice,

For those to whom I speak:

Think before you say what you say;

Look before you leap.

Words can be weapons.

Dangerous ones -- like guns.

Sometimes they are used in defense,

But always harming someone.

Yes, words can be bitter.

But many more words are sweet.

Like those used to cheer someone on

When his head hangs in defeat.

Or when your crush tells you she

Likes you, and your heart skips a beat.

Or when you eat out with a friend and

Joyous greetings are spoken when you meet.

Then there are those words that inspire.

Those heart-rending speeches and quotes

That people remember centuries after

The words were thought of and their speakers spoke.

So, my friends, these words that I wrote,

I hope you will take to heart.

Because words can both build and destroy.

Don't you agree? Words are a work of art.