The Power of Your Words: Shaping Your Path

A group of students standing in a talking circle outside 2025-26_R2S_Tips-for-Social-Media-Literacy_FINAL (141 KB)

From the moment we wake until we rest, our lives are woven with words. Our internal thoughts take shape in words and bridge our connections to our outside world.

For many Indigenous peoples, the spoken word is sacred. Our ancestors didn’t rely on written texts; they carried libraries of knowledge, laws, stories, and ceremonies within their memories, passed down with meticulous care through oral traditions. Each story, each teaching, each song was a carefully crafted message, delivered with intention and respect. This rich legacy reminds us that words are not just sounds; they are living entities, filled with the power to create, to heal, and to connect. They are how our lands, our ceremonies, and our very identities have been transmitted from Elder to youth, ensuring our cultures thrive.

Your words are the first impression you make, the foundation of how people will come to know you. Think about it: before someone knows your capabilities, they hear your voice, read your messages, and observe your communication style. How you express yourself dictates how the world will engage with you. Clear, respectful, and confident communication opens doors to opportunities, strengthens relationships, and ensures your ideas are heard and valued. Unclear communication can create barriers, leading to misunderstandings or missed chances.

This isn’t about speaking perfectly or using big words; it’s about speaking authentically and effectively. It’s about recognizing that your voice is a powerful tool, a reflection of your inner self and your connection to your heritage.

Your words are a gift, a reflection of who you are, and a bridge to the future. By consciously choosing to use them with power, intention, and respect, you honour the traditions of those who came before you and shape a path of success and positive connections for yourself and your community.

Check out the resource above for tips on how to improve your communication skills.

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