They stimulate me intellectually. They challenge me to prove them or disprove them. Politicians are notorious for using partial quotes, especially at election time. Speaking of devastating . Words can heal.
Words can harm.
Words can change our lives. I don't know anyone who upon discovering that they are infected with the HIV virus ever returns to the life they knew prior to their diagnosis. All the work I did on myself spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically, eradicated in a moment's time. All the self-esteem I accumulated, all the time I invested broadening my mind, enlightening my spirit, dealing with my emotional baggage, developing my career, opening my heart, suddenly shattered by an invisible virus. Once upon a time, my concerns were whether or not it was that hair cut, my bad temper, my impatience, my neediness, my control issues, or another lover that forced my prospective partner out the door.