The Power of Words

Following the words of the Buddha and other greats like Kant, I tend to place greatest importance on the mind, the intention behind all words and actions.

Experiences are preceded by mind
Mind is their master, by mind they are made
If, with a mind corrupted, one speaks or acts
Thenceforth he will be followed by suffering
Like the wheel follows the hoof [of the animal] that bears [the cart].

– The Buddha, Dhammapada verse 1

But at times it is important to examine the power of words themselves, leaving aside the mind which preceded them and produced them.  This week, two of my favorite bloggers have posted videos that attest to this truth. With my great thanks to both of them, and to the creators of these videos, and to all those who use words in such beautiful and liberating ways.

Via James Ure at The Buddhist Blog:

Via James Ford at Monkey Mind: