Amber Leggette-Aldrich
Painting Pictures with Words
Words
When folks ask me what I do, I like to say, “I paint pictures with words”.
When I write, the words seem to flow from my heart (and a little from my brain) and spill out onto the pages without much effort. Once they are on the page, I can make revisions if needed to make sure the picture is clear and true, before anyone else sees it.
It’s when I open my mouth, however, and let the words fall out that I seem to end up in trouble. Unfortunately, once the words have left my lips, there is no turning back, no chance to erase them.
The phrase “think before you speak” comes to mind, and it is a wise saying. But thinking alone is not enough, for our thoughts are generated in the heart.
Many years ago, my heart painted some pretty ugly pictures (both written and spoken) because it was filled with darkness and anger and hatred. What was created was hurtful and destructive and worthless.
When I began a relationship with Jesus, He changed my heart. Instead of ugliness, I began to produce pictures of beauty, encouragement, and laughter. Those are the pictures that have value, and those are the ones that I want to share.
So, just a little food for thought as we go into the weekend…what kind of pictures are you going to paint? I hope they are ones of beauty.
Have a great weekend, and I’ll see you Monday. – Amber
Amber Leggette-Aldrich 