One of the characteristics of Easter life is a more visible growth in charity, not only in deed, but also in word. St. James tells us that if we offend not with our tongues, we are perfect (cf Js 3:2). Not only are we to offer kind words of encouragment, empathy, and compassion but to avoid uncharitable talk about others. It is very hard to do, since in our judging minds we have the answers to way others should behave, or how a situation should be handled. If our words were monitored each hour, how many minutes would be devoted to criticism that is not really constructive, but destructive? There is a place for constructive criticism which can bring improvement to a situation or to another's behavior; above all, there is a place for the communication which will let others know how they are perceived, or how their actions are hurting us or others. Being objective, and having the purpose of helping to improve what might be an unjust or intolerable situation is being charitable is speech. Praying to keep ourselves on this track and thinking before we speak will help us practice a charity which gives life.
Bro. Rene
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