Think

I recently re–read a statement I had seen many times before, but for some reason, it jumped off the page this time.

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit. (Prov 18:21)

Words have power. Whenever you interact with another person, remember it is better to be a blessing and encourage someone rather than beat them down or discourage them. You never know just how fragile they may be underneath that confident smile. I’m asking you to be aware especially when a new turner shows up with something they’ve made. They will often ask for your honest opinion – don’t give it to them; at least not all of it. This is great advice for children too. Correct them when necessary, but don’t forget to encourage them too, especially when they earn it.

I’m not suggesting you lie or mislead, but you don’t have to mention every little thing they didn’t get right. Find something to praise them for, and there is always something if you look. It is tempting to say something negative when another turner doesn’t have the best equipment or tools or their skill level is less than yours. We all started somewhere including you.

I vividly remember being in a brand new club for turning when nobody knew how to turn, myself included. The leaders took a one–day class from Nick Cook and that was their total turning experience! His favorite phrase was “60 Grit is a turning tool!” …It isn’t! That was a classic case of the blind leading the blind. It is a wonder no one got seriously injured. But out of that eventually came an AAW–certified chapter and many fine turners over the years.

Then I ran across a mnemonic that is too good not to share.

Before You Speak,

Think

T – Is it true?

H – Is it helpful?

I – Is it Inspiring?

N – Is it necessary?

K – Is it kind?

In these tumultuous times, this is excellent advice for every day and everyone. Remember that wherever you go, there you are.

Here is my inspiration for this week’s message.

(Num 6:23–27 [MSG])

"Tell Aaron and his sons, This is how you are to bless the People of Israel. Say to them, GOD bless you and keep you, GOD smile on you and gift you, GOD look you full in the face and make you prosper. In so doing, they will place my name on the People of Israel— I will confirm it by blessing them."

(Heb 10:24–25 [MSG])

Let's see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out, not avoiding worshiping together as some do but spurring each other on, especially as we see the big Day approaching.

(Rom 15:2 [MSG])

Each one of us needs to look after the good of the people around us, asking ourselves, "How can I help?"