We are just about to have our discussion on Chapter One, which will be the longest, because it introduces all the major topics that we will revisit throughout the novel in greater depth. Words are so important a part of what we do and what we think and what creates the bonds between us, that our lives truly are controlled and defined by them. If you doubt this, keep a listing of what you say and hear in a one-day period that would hurt those talked about. I think you'll be surprised at how much hurt-filled words are spoken by most people who don't realize what they're doing. As much as this sounds nice and even rhymes, it's just not true.
Words can lead to pain and hatred as well as to love.
It's how they are used that you must be constantly aware of. We are defined by the words of others, just as we create the feelings about people with whom we talk and talk about. The results of your use of the techniques presented in this book should enableyou to use your words for developing thoughtful interactions with those who are close to you and a way to keep those relationships positive.