The Opposite

“Sarcasm [is] the use of remarks that clearly mean the opposite of what they say, made in order to hurt someone's feelings or to criticize something in a humorous way.” (Cambridge English Dictionary)

From my mother, I get my gift of communication. Of course when I’m really irritated with someone, I can use mother’s gift (either verbally or in written form) to let someone know just how much they have upset me. My mother is not responsible for this ability. Over the years, I have crafted this to a precise ability to bring out when I feel myself going into defensive mode.

Another form of communication that many of us (including me) have used as a devious way to communicate how we feel about a subject is sarcasm. Sarcasm is an indirect way of communicating your displeasure about something. Often the receiver knows exactly what you’re talking about, or someone may be confused with your true intent on the sarcasm uttered. The receiver can leave your presence questioning why you implied what they think you meant. It may put a friendship in jeopardy. In case you’re clueless as to what I’m talking about, a fine example of sarcasm is the anonymous quote: “Zombies eat brains. Don't worry you're safe.”

We all need to remember that “words kill, [and] words give life. They’re either poison or fruit. You choose.” (Proverbs 18:21, MSG) The next time you’re angry, and are about to spew out angry, hurtful words on someone either don’t say it, or think of a kinder way to communicate your message). Ephesians 4:29 (ERV) makes this bold declaration that we all need to pay attention to: “When you talk, don’t say anything bad. But say the good things that people need—whatever will help them grow stronger. Then what you say will be a blessing to those who hear you.” Do you need divine guidance with you tongue, or have you got this challenge solved?