Most people think of words as something to convey information: how to construct a sentence, how to spell a word, and so on. What remains surprising to some is the power words have to motivate and inspire. Words are more than a vessel for communication. They have the power to shape opinions, start conversations, and create lasting change on a grand scale.
How Can Words Make a Change?
Words have the power to persuade, motivate, and even to define an entire movement. If it can be said, people will hear it; the more powerful and widely distributed the words become, the more likely it is that real change can come about. Civil rights leaders, for example, have used words for centuries to make a difference in their communities, speaking out against injustice and rallying millions of people to their cause.
In recent years, social media has enabled people to share their views on a global stage with unprecedented speed. Platforms like Facebook and Twitter have taken what was once a private conversation in a home and made it a public event, which is why words on these platforms can often shape the current political landscape. For example, the Me Too movement, which began as a hashtag on Twitter has sparked a vital conversation about sexual assault and harassment, with an ultimate goal of bringing about systemic change.
How Do Words Have the Power?
Words have the power to inspire and draw the attention of millions of people; when used correctly, they can tell a story or create an emotional connection between people. Great leaders have used words to create a vision, to captivate audiences, and to channel the masses in one direction—their own.
The power of words to move people is particularly evident in political rhetoric. It’s not uncommon to hear strong words used in speeches and on the campaign trail. As long as there is something to fight for, language will be used to stoke the passion of the masses and make people feel a sense of unity.
How Can Words Inspire, Provoke, and Calm?
Words have the power to stir up emotions in people, but they also have the power to calm and empathize. In the wake of a tragedy, for example, words have the power to give people comfort and hope. After the tragic shooting at Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida, student Emma Gonzalez spoke at a rally shortly afterward and said, “We call BS,” in which quickly became a rallying cry for student protestors looking to make real change.
A few weeks after the shooting, President Donald Trump emotionally addressed a meeting in the White House, in which he proclaimed that school safety is a priority, by saying, “No child, no teacher should ever be in danger in an American school.” These words offered hope that something could be done, that the issue of gun violence in schools could be addressed and, most of all, that our children are safe.
From inspiring political speeches to calming words of solace, words have the power to move people in a positive direction and to create lasting change.
How Do Words Have the Power to Provoke or Inspire?
Words can evoke strong emotions and provide comfort in times of distress. They can also be used to inspire people to reach for greatness. Sometimes, it takes just the right words to challenge our preconceived notions and open our minds to something new and extraordinary.
The most iconic example of transformative words is Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech. King’s words stirred up emotion in the crowd and inspired them to work together for a common cause. His passionate speech was unmatched in its ability to motivate and move people to action.
Other words, such as former First Lady Michelle Obama’s “When they go low, we go high” mantra, invoke feelings of hope and humanity, providing inspiration to all who hear.
Conclusion
Words have the power to move people and inspire change. Whether it’s through powerful speeches or social media, everyone has the power to make their voice heard and work towards a better future. Words provide a platform to speak up and speak out, and when used correctly, they can bring about positive and lasting change.
Sources: CNN. “Emma Gonzalez’s passionate ‘We call BS’ speech goes viral.”
The Los Angeles Times. “President Trump emotionally addresses White House meeting about school safety.”
History. “Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘I Have A Dream’ speech.”
Time. “Michelle Obama’s ‘Go High’ Message Through the Years.”