Being Careful and Precise in Our Use of Language

~ By Ajahn Jayasāro ~

Beware of words that ignore the truths of impermanence and contingency such as ‘always’ and ‘never’, especially when they follow personal pronouns e.g.

“I always …..” “I never …..”
“You always …..” “You never …..”
“He/she always ….” “He/she never ….”
“They always …..” “They never …..”

So much anger, frustration and depression has resulted from using these words unwisely. Strong emotions often provoke us to use absolute terms both in our thinking and our speech. But such exaggeration sets us on the path of delusion. Being careful and precise in our use of language is not being pedantic. It can prevent much conflict and suffering.

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"Food for the Heart", a series of Dhamma teachings handwritten weekly is posted on the Buddhadāsa Indapañño Archives page with Ajahn's kind permission.

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For other teachings by Ven. Ajahn Jayasāro, please visit the Panyaprateep Foundation website.