The Power of the Pen

Photo by Walwyn on Flickr

With pen in hand, your thoughts, ideas, conclusions, advice and even your influence is exposed. Privately you can say what you please without regard to whom it will affect, however; when it comes to writing publicly you need to be prepared for what you put out there to be seen by all and taken literally.

While your writing may be admirable and commendable, it is still wise to use discretion. Also, words and messages are astronomically powerful, whether they are spoken or penned. Confucius once said that once a word is spoken (or penned, as it were), it’s effect travels outward like the ripple effect caused by a pebble thrown into a pond; it could not be undone.

What information are you distributing, what message are you sending and who will be reading it?  If you are writing informational pieces, then make sure the facts are accurate, relevant, clear and concise. Use extreme caution in what you write, because someone, somewhere is going to take it to heart; after all, it is printed, so it must be true. Right?  

Wrong. Anyone in this age of self-gratification will say, sing, produce, write or print anything to make a buck with no regard to the affect it might have on others.  While we all have various ideas about what is right and what is wrong, there are some basic standards to which we should all adhere. Sticking to factual material and telling the truth will keep you in the safe zone.

Research and back-up your information.  You never want to lead someone astray for self-gain. Be guarded in what you pen; follow your heart, your mind, and always display a good measure of integrity and common sense.

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