5 Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.
This goes along with quick to listen, slow to speak. What comes out of our mouth can undo many good actions. Looking at the political process today, how often has Obama, Romney or others made a comment when asked a question that was captured as a sound bite that was used to set fire to their campaign--I think it was Romney's 'binders of women' last week which I'm sure doesn't really represent his position but is what everyone was talking about.
We often talk about actions speak louder than words, but it seems like that's more true for when we do something stupid versus when you are doing things right. Sometimes good deeds may slip into the night without notice, but a passing comment or joke might cut someone right to the core even when that wasn't the intent.
I think in general I control my tongue but there are times I know I say things I don't mean or that may hurt--James is a good reminder to keep myself in check whenever I feel myself starting to run at the mouth.
knut
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