Now even as I say that now, I too smile and laugh out loud. Sadly, that neighbour died suddenly, shortly after, and I was never able to tell her in later years, the incredible influence those simple words had on me. Words are deeds and as James reminds us as well, they can also be a curse. The tongue is indeed a fire. Think of the words of politicians and how their elections can be won or lost because of wise or foolish utterances.
Words can devastate.
The reason why verbal abuse is so much more destructive and lasting in its effect than physical assault is that words affect us at a much deeper level than physical injury. Some may recall that true story of Charles Francis Adams, one time U.S. ambassador to Great Britain. Somewhat of a workaholic, the ambassador rarely took the time to do anything with his son as a child. However he did take the time to write in his diary every day. After his father died, the son found the diary.