It Is Not What We Say, It Is How We Say It

Have you ever been surprised by someone's response to a remark that you have made? Have you ever been hurt or offended by a comment uttered by a co-worker, friend, or family member? If so, was it the words of the offender or the tone of voice that stung you? The following poem reminds us that often the manner in which our words are delivered can entirely change our meaning. The Tone of the Voice It's not so much what you say, as the manner in which you say it; It's not so much the language you use, as the tone in which you convey it. "Come here", I sharply said, And the child cowered and wept. "Come here", I said, he looked and smiled, And straight to my lap he crept. Words may be mild and fair, But the tone may pierce like a dart; Words may be soft as the summer air, But the tone may break my heart; For words come from the mind Grow by study and art, But tone leaps from the inner self, Revealing the state of heart. Whether you know it or not, Whether you mean or care, Gentleness, kindness, love and hate, Envy, anger are there. Then, would you quarrels avoid-- And peace and love rejoice? Keep anger not only out of your words, Keep it out of your voice. (Author unknown)