When I was 19 years old, one conversation changed the direction of my life.
I was a college sophomore studying TV broadcasting, dreaming of becoming a morning show anchor. (Think Jane Pauley and Joan Lunden—I wanted to be just like them!)
At a choir party, I met a man named Cal Thomas, a well-known journalist who had worked nationally with NBC News. During our conversation, I shared my dream—not just to be on TV, but to make a positive impact and reflect my faith.
He gave me advice I never expected.
He suggested I change my major from broadcasting to political science or history—because, in his words, the real influence comes from the writers, not the people in front of the camera.
And just like that… I did it.
I changed my major to political science and kept speech as a minor. That one decision led me to internships on Capitol Hill and opened doors I never would have imagined. Eventually, my path took me into interior design and professional speaking—far from the morning shows I once envisioned.
All because of a few words spoken in a casual conversation—words he probably doesn’t even remember.
Words Matter More Than We Think
That memory came back to me recently, and it reminded me just how powerful our words really are.
Every single day, we have the opportunity to influence, encourage, and even redirect someone’s life—with something as simple as what we say.
So before we speak, here are a few gentle questions to guide us:
Is it true?
Are we sharing facts, or just opinions dressed up as facts? A small shift in wording can make a big difference in clarity and kindness.
Is it helpful?
Even if something is true, is it useful in the moment? Our words should support, not stress.
Does it build up and expand someone’s vision?
This is one of my favorites. How often do we have the chance to lift someone higher—and instead, say nothing? Let’s be people who call out potential and inspire bigger dreams.
Can I offer encouragement?
Encouragement is surprisingly rare, and incredibly powerful. A kind word can change the entire tone of someone’s day (or even their life).
And One More—The Most Important One
What am I saying to myself?
The words we speak to ourselves matter just as much, if not more than what we speak to others.
Are you telling yourself the truth?
Are you building yourself up?
Are you speaking life, hope, and possibility over your own story?
You have more influence than you realize.
So today, why not use your words to make a difference—
in someone else’s life…
…and in your own. 💛
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Christy Largent is a motivational speaker, painter, and joy enthusiast based in Texas. After decades as an interior designer and professional speaker, she’s now inspiring women everywhere to embrace their Empty Nest years as a fresh season of discovery. Through her art, writing, and storytelling, Christy encourages others to live with purpose, laughter, and faith—because joy truly is made visible.
Follow her at ChristyLargent.com or on Instagram @ChristyLargent for a daily dose of color, creativity, and encouragement.
Thank you for this. We’ve written an entire elementary musical on this. WORD POWER. “The power of life and death is in the tongue.” Proverbs 18:21
Great reminders! Thank you for sharing!
Loved this! There are many people who cannot express kindness, encouragement or positivity through their words, but I believe it makes such a difference in the course of someone’s day!