The Eightfold Path, Part Three (an ongoing introduction to Buddhism…as I understand it)

Wisdom

1. Right View

2. Right Intention

Ethical Conduct:

3. Right Speech

4. Right Action

5. Right Livelihood

Mental Development:

6. Right Effort

7. Right Mindfulness

8. Right Concentration

Right speech follows from right intent; and, specifically, it involves speaking with honesty, harmony, affection, and good will. You should understand why you want to speak before you speak. If you detect destructive motives (an intent to misrepresent, disruptive speech, harsh speech, or idle speech with no focused intent), then withhold your words. You will become more aware of yourself as a result of withholding these destructive modes of speech; and, as an added bonus, you will avoid saying things that you’ll regret. Further, your words will develop into offerings; others will pay attention when you speak, and will be inclined to respond in kind.

Humor can provide a major hurdle to right speech; many of us (and I am certainly guilty of this) are practiced at the art of procuring laughter with sarcasm, stereotypes, embellishment, and inanity. It is difficult, but not impossible, to sharpen the mind by expressing humor constructively, honestly and astutely, and to direct our minds to reveal humor that arises naturally.

In summary, it is wise to concentrate on what you say and why you say it; you may find that your mouth is more valuable without a foot inside it.