Simple Little Words: What You Say Can Change a Life

Simple Little Words was a book that I did not want to put down, but needed to. A book that I couldn't get enough of, but longed to savor and treasure. Story by story. Page by page. Word for word. I read stories beginning with hurt and ending with forgiveness, illustrations of confusion flowing into certainty, and pictures of worthlessness transformed into treasures. I wept, laughed, and at moments paused and took a deep breath. In each story I found a piece of myself, parts of me that I could never understand before. Powerful revelations of my past, present, and where I want to be tomorrow. Thank you John and Michelle for allowing God to minister to my heart and the hearts of others through this book. Thank you to all who shared their precious memories and the simple little words that changed their lives. I sincerely recommend this book to everyone and encourage you to not only read this book but to follow the study guide that has been so wonderfully put together by John and Michelle. Savor each story as I did and allow these simple little words to touch your heart and soul.

What a great read! When I picked it up, I planned on reading a few entries--and then I couldn't put it down. Each author whose tale is included in SLW dug deep and let us see a little bit of their heart. I loved hearing about small moments that had a huge impact, and I look forward to reading future books in the series.

I've always said that the playground lyrics, "sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me" has it all wrong. Physical wounds heal, but being wounded by words can wound for life. Sometimes, all it takes to make a difference in the lives of others are simple words of affirmation. Authors Michelle Cox and John Perrodin have rounded up experiences from familiar names such as: novelist Karen Kingsbury, Chick-fil-A founder Truett Cathy, and Focus on the Family CEO Jim Daly, to name a few. Each story reflects on the power of encouraging words. Simple Little Words is jam-packed with over 40 true stories--from Christian writers, educators, songwriters, executives, Hollywood producers, and others. Just like I guessed on the playground as a child, little words can make a big difference! The book shows that it is often what is said spontaneously, on an ordinary day that creates a life transformation needed for the hearer. Michelle shares a story from her childhood. "As a child from a dysfunctional home situation, I had no self-esteem and no self-confidence. On a class field trip one day, a classmate's mom said, `You have the most beautiful green eyes I've ever seen.' To her they were ten simple little words, but to a child who needed to hear there was something of beauty about her, they were life changing. This book is a beautiful reminder that our words are powerful tools." John explained the takeaway value of the book when he said, "I hope the reader sees that our time on this spinning orb is short. We don't know how many more opportunities we'll have to look a loved one in the eye and say `I'm sorry.' That's the beauty of Simple Little Words. We're not asking anyone to make fancy speeches or write eloquent tomes. All we're asking is that they take the time to speak life, hope, and love to those around them." I highly recommend this book. In fact, buy several copies because you will want one copy to keep and others to give away to others. It has caused me to want to get in touch with those whose "simple little words" impacted my life in a big way. Some are no longer here on earth, so the only way I can express my gratitude is to pay it forward by sharing simple little words with others.

The stories shared in this book are touching and a wonderful reminder of the importance of building people up and not tearing them down with our words. People from different walks of life told their stories and it is amazing to read how they were encouraged by others and the impact that had on their lives. I will recommend this book to my friends and give it as a gift.

"Sticks and stones can break my bones but words can never hurt me" is not a true statement. As the shortest person in my class I was often the brunt of short jokes. While as an adult I know they were not meant to be cruel, as a child they hurt. We often do not realize that our word hurt someone unintentionally. True anecdotes tell the tale in Simple Little Words. A scripture precedes each story. Readers are reminded to watch their words. Words can make a difference in a life. Too often, we unthinkingly use words and cause pain. Without meaning too, we deeply wound others. Simple phrases like clumsy as an ox, blind as a bat, and beanpole bring pain and lessen self-esteem. In the same light, sincere praise elevates self-esteem. A passing comment on talents and attributes lifts spirits and can make a difference in someone's life. Simple Little Words would make a great gift. I highly recommend Simple Little Words.