The Power of "Send"

The Power in “SEND”

Something has been on my heart for weeks, and I debated on whether or not I should write about it.  I wanted to wait a few days to ensure it was not written out of anger or retaliation.  I have faith in the fact that everything happens for a reason.  Even if it was meant for evil, I believe God uses it for good.  As hard as it was, I knew I had to open my heart and allow Him to work.

Technology is awesome.  I love Facebook!  With the use of technology, I keep up with people I may not be able to talk to on a regular basis.  I adore watching videos of my friends’ children and celebrate the accomplishments of friends that are hundreds of miles away. I love to pray for people and see God’s work happening before my eyes.

However, I want to ask a question.  Do we really understand the power of the “SEND” key?

When we have a screen before us, I hope we can remember that people on the other side will be affected.  The computer screen can provide a sense of confidence that a person might not show regularly. That sense of confidence could be used in positive or negative ways.

I enjoy using technology to share my life experiences.  Many people who don’t know me or my story think I have a boring life or feel sorry for me because of my disability. I often will direct people to my Facebook page or blog.  I love to share all that I am doing as Ms. Wheelchair Virginia.  Every post and every picture capture lives being changed, including my life.  It is my hope that people will be ignited to become invested in the community as I am. I may not be able to have the opportunity to talk to everyone, so I hope my writings will touch more people. 

The other side is technology can be used in a negative way.  When we were growing up, we were told that words can never hurt us!  WRONG!  Words run deep, touch the heart, and affect a person’s entire life. 

Recently, I received a message from a colleague accusing me of lying about my accomplishments. In a split moment, I felt a stab to the heart.  Being accused of lying about something so special to me stung.  My knee-jerk reaction was to reply with an attitude saying that she was wrong and how much she hurt me. 

After waking up the next morning, I realized that I didn’t show grace.  I had done exactly what she did to me.  I didn’t take a moment to think about how my words could have affected her.  That morning, I sent her a message again explaining the situation and apologize for my reaction!  We forgave each other and promised to keep lifting one another up. 

Friends, I hope you see the influence of your words and see the “SEND” key as a powerful tool. Before hitting send, let’s think about how the message will affect the lives of others.  We should be using our words to encourage and love one another. 

Sending my love,

Angela