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 The Power of the Tongue^©

 Carlos P. Romulo was once Philippine commissioner to the US and was a staunch advocate of Philippine independence. Since the Philippines is not a state of America, Romulo could freely speak in the assembly but could not vote. But he was eloquent and effective that he gained support from many American lawmakers.

In exasperation, one of his adversaries exclaimed, “Let’s give him the vote but not the voice!”

The tongue is so powerful that the apostle James advocated that we use it properly. With it we bless and with it we curse.

In my ten years as a teacher I saw a lot of students who took heart because of some sincere words from someone they respect. And I have seen many others who lost self-respect due to some unkind remarks.

Story as a product and tool of our tongue is equally potent. It has made and unmade countries. For example, “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” sparked the American Civil War, while Rizal’s “Noli Me Tangere” and “El Filibus Terismo” gave birth to the Philippines.  Stories – may it be anecdote, fables or parables - are as compelling as factual ideas and much more they are interesting.

~ o ~ o ~ o ~ o ~

Marjonnel