Let’s Talk sessions are discussions and meaningful conversations on various topics with the youth of North America. This biweekly online session was conducted by Dr. Jananiji, disciple of HH Maharanyam Sri Sri Muralidhara Swamiji. Below is an article of one of these sessions shared by a youth.
Sweet Talk: An Effective Mantra for Smooth Relationships
“Kindness in the world creates confidence.”The power of language is undeniable, and the choice of words can significantly impact the effectiveness of our communication. Using kind words is crucial for conveying messages in a polite and respectful manner. When we articulate our thoughts with kindness, we foster a positive atmosphere that encourages open dialogue and mutual understanding. This approach not only helps in getting our point across without causing offense but also contributes to a more harmonious interaction.
Kind words serve as a tool for uplifting and encouraging others. They have the potential to inspire and motivate, especially when someone is facing challenges. By choosing to use compassionate language, we can provide comfort and support, which can be incredibly impactful during difficult times. This empathetic approach can help build stronger relationships and create an environment where people feel valued and heard.
While the use of kind words is generally beneficial, it is important to maintain a balance. Overuse of sweet or excessively polite language can lead to misunderstandings, creating an illusion of perfection or masking genuine concerns. It is important to be authentic in our interactions and to use kind words judiciously. This ensures that our sincerity is not questioned and that our true intentions are understood.
Tulsidasji, a revered Vaishnava Hindu saint and poet, was known for his devotion to Bhagavan Sri Rama. He emphasizes the importance of sweet speech in the verse:
तुलसी मीठे वचन ते सुख उपजत चहुँ ओर।
बसीकरन इक मंत्र है परिहरू बचन कठोर ।।
tulsi mITE vachana tE sukha upajata chahun Or |
basIkarana ika mantra hai pariharU bachan kaTOra ||
In this verse, Tulsidasji says that sweet speech creates an atmosphere of happiness everywhere. This is an effective mantra to attract everyone towards us, hence we should give up harsh words and talk sweetly.
Similarly, Tiruvalluvar, an esteemed Tamil poet and philosopher, emphasized the significance of kind words. He suggested that those who speak gently will not suffer the agonies of poverty and that humility combined with gentle speech is the greatest adornment. Tiruvalluvar also believed that gentle speech reduces the burden of sins, lighting the divine nature of sweet-spoken words and their association with kindness, generosity, and compassion. On the contrary, harsh words can leave lasting scars and foster negativity, pain, and suffering.
Therefore, it is essential to be mindful of our speech, striving to be gentle yet honest, and to communicate with respect and care for the well-being of others
by Sudarshan Mahadevan Sankaranaryanan, Raleigh NC
