The power of words

I've been thinking a lot about words lately- mostly about what people say and maybe even more importantly, how it is said.

I often tell my kids that there is a nice way to say something as well as a mean way. More often than not our household chooses the mean way. The tone of voice that adds 'you're a stupid idiot' is creeping into our conversations and patience seems to have run out the door long ago. And honestly, I don't know how much more I can take before this tidal wave drowns me in despair.

Out of the heart the mouth speaks- so I guess in one way this is a good thing, because know there is no doubt as to where our hearts are right now. But what to do about people who don't care how they talk to you- whether it hurts you (and those around you) or not? How do I guard my heart (or my children's hearts) and still stay soft to the things of the Lord?

But of more significance- how do I get my children to learn how to speak/act kindly to others when the example they get from grown-ups in their lives is the exact opposite?

I'm making more of a concerted effort to change my words and their tone- but it's a heart thing, which means the long term correction needs divine intervention- for all of us!