"Lord, give us the wisdom to utter words that are gentle and tender, for tomorrow we may have to eat them"

Words possess the power to heal or to harm, to bridge divides or to deepen chasms. Mo Udall’s words offer a profound reminder of the need for humility and foresight in our everyday conversations. When we communicate impulsively, our remarks can come back to haunt us. What we say in the heat of the moment, whether out of anger, arrogance, or frustration, might later be the very thing we regret, forcing us to confront the bitter consequences of our speech.

Speaking gently and tenderly is not merely about being nice; it is an acknowledgment of the unpredictability of life and relationships. Circumstances can change quickly. Those we oppose or criticize today may become our allies or crucial figures in our lives tomorrow. The “eating” of our words suggests the embarrassment or humility required to face the consequences of thoughtless comments. If our words are harsh, we might find them especially unpalatable when we must retract or apologize for them later.

Wisdom in speech requires self-awareness and restraint. It asks us to consider not only the impact our words have on others in the moment, but also the reverberations they may cause down the road. Words spoken in kindness are far easier to revisit than those fueled by anger or judgment. Even in disagreement, choosing a gentle tone maintains respect and opens the door for reconciliation, should it become necessary.

Udall’s reflection encourages personal responsibility and accountability for our communications. It reminds us that humility stems from recognizing our own fallibility; we do not know the future, nor can we predict the shifting tides of human connection. By uttering words that are gentle and tender, we safeguard not only others’ dignity but also our own peace of mind, ensuring we can live with the words we may one day need to reclaim.