Thread by @JoLuehmann

There is no such thing as bad words. Words are just an element of speech, a tool of communication. There are simply bad ways to use words, like it is the case for any tool.
(1)

We’ve been so conditioned to think using certain words is inappropriate that sometimes we focus more on the words people are using instead of listening to what people are actually saying.
(2)

There are many ways in which we can use words to cause harm, but considering that goes beyond simply banning certain words from our vocabulary, and instead requires that we think through the intent behind what we are saying.
(3)

Cursing – Wishing harm upon another - I can curse at someone with or without using a “bad word”, and at the same time I can use a “bad word” and not curse at all.
(4)

Swearing – Making promises we don’t intend to keep - This is about deception and dishonesty. I can swear with or without using a “bad word”, and I can certainly use “bad words” and not swear.
(5)

Taking the Lord’s name in vain – Empty religion, using the name of God to harm another or for selfish gain - This is the third commandment from Exodus. The word vain in Hebrew means empty, vanity, false, lying. This is about religious and spiritual abuse.
(6)

It’s not only ridiculous to focus on certain “bad words” but not on intention and impact of words, it is also useless behavior modification that doesn’t really matter or make someone a better person.
(7)

Healthy ppl communicate assertively, don’t use words to harm, and are quick to repair harm when their impact doesn’t match their intent. Healthy ppl feel free to use whatever language appropriately conveys their message. They show their emotions as they deem appropriate
(8)

Unhealthy people get upset that someone uses certain words and then dismiss everything after that, having an inability to maturely show up for others. They are more concerned with tone policing themselves and others than real honest emotions and conversation.
(9)

Unhealthy ppl focus on “looking right” and appearing unproblematic, they are more concerned w/their reputation and how they are perceived, than with honest, assertive communication.

Be healthy, say what you want to say, what you mean to say, and apologize when you hurt someone.