Words

Words can…

Crumble a nation

Or build the bridge.

Seek to understand

Or turn away from truth.

Crack the foundation

Or mend a fence.

Plunge as a dagger

Or comfort the soul.

Fight for freedom

Or smother the flame.

Invite violence

Or stand in peace.

Float on air

Or weigh down the mind.

Build a wall

Or give a voice.

Paint like an artist

Or leave a blank canvas.

Ravage a forest

Or plant a seedling.

What we say to others,

How we speak to ourselves,

Our words have power.

We choose what kind.

Nikki Bergstresser

March 2023

(Photo from our trip to Cordoba, Spain)