When you speak
It is your spirit you impart
Something of your self you give the world
Your breath your tongue gives out the sound
It’s tone and temper seeking ground
In which to plant the word you give the world
The centurion of Capernaum
Knew the power of words
He used them to command and was obeyed
Come here go there do this do that
His regimental rule he exercised
With confidence displayed
Say but the word he told the Lord
The word is all we need
My servant will be well
If you will say
Jesus was amazed at this
What faith is this he cries
You understand the power that in me lies
You have a power you little know
The power of words to heal
A power to hurt and harm as well
A power to make folk feel
A power of kindness careful thought
Carefully expressed
Sometimes in saying nothing at all
A power that says it best
Brian Fahy
13 September 2021
Erris Poetry 