Little kids try to get along by hitting, pushing, shoving, taking.

They haven’t matured and learned enough language to think and speak what they want through words, so they don’t have to resort to force.

Are we adults the same way many times? We don’t have a big enough working vocabulary.  It takes time and effort to learn words and each of their meanings. It is a lifelong process. Then we haven’t spent enough time thinking to draw together our thoughts into meaningful conversation to convey what we need, want, hope for – or to be able to understand what others need, want, and hope for when they speak to us.

It works both ways.

The more words we know, the more detailed our conversation can become; the finer the understanding; the more complete the thought processing. They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Yet words describe behind the picture, the thoughts of why it was painted and how it came into being.

There is something about language that is so needful for us humans to fully interact. We could all help ourselves, become better if we broaden our vocabulary and learn how to use it, to think it through and then to convey it.

Language is a gift.  Being able to peacefully negotiate (talk) with another human being about things important to us in a way they can fully understand what we mean and are thinking. We can know they heard us correctly because we used the right words.  And we, in turn, do the same with them as they speak clearly with their words. This can prevent many fights or misunderstandings.

Of course, there still needs to be the back and forth of conversation – asking questions…did you mean this when you said that…?

How do we start? Pick any area of interest to you and investigate one new word about that subject. Read its meaning in all aspects and practice using it. Aim to learn one new word a week. Watch your vocabulary and understanding increase. Don’t let big words intimidate you. You personally, will be pleased with your growth.

Pick your subject and begin today. Become a master of your own language!