Language is a Hand
I can call you a tourist or a visitor. I can call you a foreigner or a newcomer.
The face appears or disappears depending on the word chosen before the encounter even begins.
I am here even if my language is from somewhere. Can you see me without words?
I can not. I will not. Two different frames that can be applied to the same situation. First removes agency, second restores it.
Language has many frames, and depending on how I decide to use it, I choose one framing over another.
Language is not good or bad. It is also not neutral. Language is like a hand. I can use it to stroke you or to punch you. It is still a hand. And I am the responsible one.
Language can pull you up or push you down. It can drag you or lead you. It can build a wall between us or take a hammer and destroy it.
Power is a relation. Power exists when there is more than one. Face exists in relation.
I am thinking about words. What language do I use with my daughter… sometimes I do not feel good about my language, too excited, too tired, too strong.
I want to see you as you are, but with language I see you through words.
I am worried about my language. I do not want it to put you down… sometimes I am scared, I react, I protect myself. Later I hear my own words and I feel lonely. I do not want to be alone.
What would happen if next time I took a breath before saying something?
Which words will you direct at your loved one when you wake up?