Words Are Mightier Than the Sword

When I was in high school, I often saw university student members of the Church of God University Student Volunteer Group (ASEZ) actively engaging in diverse volunteer activities. Watching them inspired me, and I promised myself that I would definitely become a member once I reached that age. As soon as I entered university, I joined ASEZ. However, it was also when COVID-19 began to spread. Most activities became restricted, and I had little opportunity to volunteer. I was very disappointed, as I had strongly hoped to participate in various services like delivering coal briquettes, cleaning streets, and distributing heartfelt lunch boxes.

Then, I heard that ASEZ was launching a “Ban on Verbal Abuse” campaign. I immediately visited the ASEZ website to learn more. The campaign slogan was “Words Are Mightier Than the Sword,” and it aimed to encourage people to avoid hurtful language and instead use words that bring happiness. The campaign encouraged participants to carefully read related informational cards and, once a day, offer someone a word of encouragement along with a thumbs-up gesture, either online or offline. I was excited by the idea that love could also be shared through the internet.

I had never left comments of encouragement or hopeful messages online before, so I was unsure what to say or how to say it. I opened apps commonly used by university students, such as schedule planners and campus community platforms. On those apps, anonymous users often leave harsh and critical comments. I decided to post “good comments” (kind messages) instead. About three times a day, I would leave the first comment on the most recent posts.

“You’re amazing.”

“I’m rooting for everything you do.”

“Thanks for sharing something I didn’t know.”

A few days later, I happened to revisit one of the posts where I had commented, and I was pleasantly surprised to find many more positive comments following mine. It made me truly realize what a positive influence could look like.

At home, I also started complimenting my younger siblings every day. They responded with joy, saying things like, “I can’t remember the last time you praised me,” and “That was touching—thanks.” I felt sorry, realizing I had often been curt or irritable with them just because we were close. I had assumed they would understand my heart without me having to say it—but I was wrong. Even with family, unspoken feelings can go unnoticed.

At home, I also started complimenting my younger siblings every day. They responded with joy, saying things like, “I can’t remember the last time you praised me,” and “That was touching—thanks.” I felt sorry, realizing I had often been curt or irritable with them just because we were close. I had assumed they would understand my heart without me having to say it—but I was wrong. Even with family, unspoken feelings can go unnoticed.

A knife plays a completely different role depending on whose hand it’s in and for what purpose. A doctor uses a knife to save lives. A chef prepares delicious food that delights people. But in the hands of the wrong person, a knife can become a weapon. Words are the same. Depending on how they’re used, they can comfort, bring joy—or wound.

Online communication makes it harder to read facial expressions, body language, or emotions. That’s why we must be even more careful with our words. Although the campaign has ended, I hope to continue spreading warmth to those around me through words of comfort and hope.of the Church of God University Student Volunteer Group (ASEZ)of the Church of God University Student Volunteer Group (ASEZ)