2 Mar
Better than a thousand hollow words, is one word that brings peace
A congregant shared with me a wonderful story about his little nephew who lived in the State of Illinois. One day, his uncle was trying to teach him some Hebrew blessings. After he taught him the blessings, he went home. A week later, he asked his nephew, “Do you remember the bracha (blessing) over bread? It goes, ‘Baruch Atah Adonai …’ Do you remember how to say the blessing?”
The little boy said, “Sure, Uncle. Here’s how it goes: I broke my toy in Illinois . . .”
It’s one thing when a child makes an error, but it’s quite another matter when diplomats or leaders choose the wrong word in expressing an important communication with another government. A single gaffe can lead to a war! Human language can be awkward at times. The terms we use to express a specific thought can alter the way others perceive our intentions. Continue Reading
