Send us a textWords can lift us to heights we never thought possible, or they can shatter us into pieces we never imagined. In this episode of Beyond Words, Najwa Zebian explores the immense power of language—how it shapes our identity, fuels our growth, or erodes our spirit. Through vivid analogies of mirrors and walls, safe havens and storms, band-aids and knives, Najwa reveals how the words we give and receive can either nurture or destroy us. This episode is a reminder to choose words with intention—and to surround yourself with people whose words help you rise.Timestamps & Show Notes0:00 – IntroductionWords have the power to build or destroyReflection on how other people’s words have impacted you1:00 – The Energy of Words“I love you” vs. “I hate you”How words fuel or deplete your energyPersonal reflections on how words can set the tone for your entire day2:50 – Words as ElevatorsWords can lift you to new levels or drag you into darknessSilence has power, but words can fertilize growth or poison it5:20 – The Environment of WordsThe people and words you surround yourself with matter deeplyRepetition of harmful words can numb but also destroy your sense of self7:20 – Silence as NeglectChoosing not to speak when someone opens up can wound them furtherThe absence of empathy can feel like fuel to the fire9:15 – Mirrors vs. WallsWords can be a mirror that reflects and validatesOr they can be a wall that offers nothing and deepens painExamples of neglect when joy or pain isn’t mirrored back13:40 – Safe Havens vs. StormsWords can calm a tornado of self-blame or fuel the chaosCreating safety with empathy and presenceChoosing to be a safe haven even in silence19:00 – Band-aids vs. KnivesWords as healing ointment or as sharp blades that worsen woundsThe impact of words on emotional injuries23:00 – Dimming Your LightWhen people demand you be a smaller version of yourselfThe cost of silencing your voice to be accepted27:00 – Cutting the StringsChoosing to cut off people whose words devalue youRefusing to grant access to those who only seek to bring you down30:00 – Spinning vs. ClarityWords can stop someone’s spiraling thoughts or intensify confusionAbusers thrive on keeping you in confusion33:00 – Echoes vs. SilenceWords can amplify and validate someone’s voiceOr they can silence and erase a person’s sense of value36:30 – Final ReflectionsFive reminders: words can be mirrors, safe havens, band-aids, clarity, and echoesNajwa’s call to reflect on one word that comes to mind when you think of the power of words

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