[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 16]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 23092]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



  RECOGNIZING IMPORTANCE OF A NATIONAL DAY FOR WORDS CAN HEAL CAMPAIGN

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                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 27, 2001

  Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the importance of 
a National day for the Words Can Heal campaign as called for in H. Res. 
235 introduced by our collegue Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and 
passed by the House on the Suspension Calendar on Tuesday, November 13, 
2001. As children, many of us were taught the expression ``sticks and 
stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me.'' This phrase 
was intended to provide a tool for kids, often victims of cruel words 
and thoughtless remarks, to protect themselves.
  While this concept often allowed children to stand strong against 
painful statements, as adults we sometimes de-emphasize the importance 
that the use language plays in our relationships. When we take part in 
gossip or say inconsiderate things about others, we disrespect the 
people we are talking about, those with whom we are engaging in 
conversation, and especially ourselves. This disparagement can create 
an environment of negativity and foster a community where the role of 
each person is under-appreciated.
  Rabbi Katsof's revolutionary effort to reduce verbal violence and 
gossip provides us the opportunity to use language to heal our wounds 
rather than deepen them. The power of words to bring a smile as opposed 
to a tear cannot be understated. While few people would disagree, 
despite our best intentions, we sometimes veer off course and need a 
nudge in the right direction. Rabbi Katsof understands this and his 
national media campaign designed to encourage us to use ethical speech 
each and every day has the potential to help us not lose sight of the 
significance of the words we use.

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