Words…

The Imprint of Words

Words…

They are energy.

They linger.

They shape.

The power of words is an energy that goes far beyond what we often imagine. They don’t simply pass through a moment — they leave an imprint. Whether spoken or unspoken, words carry the energy we give to a certain situation: the emotions behind them, the cultural lens they pass through, and even the pace of our thoughts.

They are shaped by the language we inherited, the culture we’ve adapted to, the edges of our comfort zone we’ve dared to stretch.

And in return, they begin to shape us — our beliefs, our stories, our understanding of reality.

This has always captured my fascination. Because in essence, all words, all languages, connect through the same foundational truth that every human carries: the wish to express, to connect, to be seen.

So it’s no wonder that two people living next door to each other can experience the world entirely differently.

Their inner language — and the energy behind it — is different.

A Glimpse Through Cultures

In Hawai’i, there is no phrase like “let’s go into nature,” because the understanding is: we are nature — as much as the land, the ocean, and all living beings.

In Arabic-speaking cultures, even on difficult days, the response is often: “If it pleases God” (Inshallah) — a phrase that holds gratitude, trust, and surrender.

The Himba tribe in Namibia has no word for the color blue. In their world, this color isn’t distinguished from others.

It reminds us that when there is no word, perhaps there is no conscious recognition — yet.

Among the Indigenous people of Cape York Peninsula, Australia, you don’t hear “there’s a fly on your left leg.”

They would say: “There’s a fly on your northwest leg.”

Their language is woven with cardinal directions, reflecting an extraordinary relationship to space and navigation.

In Hebrew, there are more than seven different words for joy.

Each one expresses a subtle variation — from quiet inner contentment to jubilant celebration.

It reveals how deeply joy is honored as a foundation of resilience and meaningful living.

What Shapes What?

Have you ever wondered — what came first: the way we see the world or the words we use to describe it?

Language is deeply intertwined with culture. The experiences a culture holds give rise to new words.

But also, the words we have determine what we can express and even perceive.

If there is no word for something in your language… does that thing exist for you in any tangible way?

Every culture gives rise to different foods, seasons, landscapes, emotions — and thus, different sounds and expressions.

Yet anyone who studies languages will find fascinating overlaps between even the most distant tongues.

So it raises a question:

If you only know one language, is your world smaller than someone who understands many?

Are your thoughts shaped by the limits — or expansiveness — of your vocabulary?

And what does that mean for our mental health, our inner peace, even our physical well-being?

The Language Thread in My Life

For me, the answer is clear.

My world would be smaller if I spoke only one language.

The words I use daily shape how I think, how I feel, how I relate to others — and ultimately, how I live.

Learning and listening to new languages has never been just about communication for me.

It’s a thread that weaves through every chapter of my life.

It helps me see myself more clearly, and it gives me the tools to connect deeply with others, even when their world looks nothing like mine.

It taught me empathy.

It taught me humility.

It taught me that every person carries a different reality — and language is often the doorway into understanding it.

That’s why, for me, language is a healing path. One that stretches my heart and widens my perception.

Before Your Next Conversation…

Words are powerful.

They don’t just land in someone else’s ears — they ripple through their system, just as they ripple through yours.

But here’s something worth reflecting on:

Are you aware that the words you speak may land very differently than you intend?

Culture, language skills, emotional state, past experiences — they all shape how someone receives your message.

Even the environment matters: a noisy space, a distracted mind, a previous wound linked to a certain phrase — all of these influence what is actually heard.

And beyond what is said, there is how it’s said.

Were the words spoken aloud or whispered?

Were they written clearly, or lost in the noise of a crowded visual?

Was the listener grounded and open — or somewhere else entirely?

All of this matters. Because every word leaves an imprint — on others, and on yourself.

Your Turn to Reflect

Have you ever noticed how certain words affect you — soothe you, stir you, or stay with you long after they’re spoken?

Are there phrases from your native language — or another — that have shaped your worldview in subtle ways?

Which words feel like home to you? Which ones feel like armor?

I’d love to hear your reflections. You’re welcome to share them in the comments, or simply let them echo within.

Because sometimes, a question is the beginning of a deeper journey.

Much love, warmth and gratitude,

Natalie,

Serenity

📸©️Serenity - Natalie Verstappen

©️ Serenity - Natalie Verstappen