Language and Intuition

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God. This is how the Old Testament begins, and how the New Testament echoes its profound truth. There is a deep significance in this focus on language, communication, and understanding—an acknowledgment of its foundational role in our existence.

Language, as I consider it here, is not about specific dialects or regional tongues; it is about the essence of communication itself. To communicate is not merely to speak but to understand. Many animals communicate, yet the question remains: do they grasp each other’s meanings on an intrinsic level?

In human conversation, especially deep ones, it becomes vital to explore the layers of meaning behind the words we use. Take, for example, the word “God.” For some, God represents a father figure, and if their relationship with their father is fraught, this may shape their concept of God. For others, God is an impersonal energy, the source of all existence. Still, others see God as a being with emotions and a distinct personality. Clearly, understanding what “God” means to each person can transform the nature of the conversation.

The same applies to words like “love.” Love can mean selfless care for another, romantic affection, maternal devotion, familial connection, or friendship. Without understanding how the other person relates to the word, our dialogue risks misunderstanding. Words like friendship, marriage, religion, politics, community, depression, and failure all carry deeply personal and varied meanings.

How can we have meaningful conversations if we don’t first explore what our words mean to each other?

I admit, I am far from mastering this awareness. Even after years of reflecting on it, I often forget its importance. Intuition has guided me here, nudging me toward or away from certain conversations. Yet, my ego has sometimes overruled that intuition, leading to negative outcomes. Over time, I’ve come to realize that my gut often knows better, even when I don’t act accordingly.

This is one of many reasons why I believe in the importance of meditation and self-reflection. Writing, journaling, and engaging in inner dialogue allow us to quiet the noise of the mind—memories, conditioning, and distractions—and tune into our intuition. The mind often speaks in pictures, sounds, or internal dialogue, but meditation shifts our focus to the heart, the gut, or our inner knowing.

Intuition not only warns us but also draws us toward others with whom meaningful conversations can flourish. When we speak from the heart, from the core of our being, we transcend language’s barriers and truly connect. It’s a beautiful experience. Yet, language remains tricky—not because it is inherently flawed, but because our minds can make it so. We must master our minds, not let them master us.

Language has power—like belief, it casts spells. These spells can bless or harm, uplift or destroy. Rarely is language neutral. Becoming aware of this truth places a weighty responsibility on us. Every word we speak carries the potential to shape the world around us, as well as our inner world.

This realization once led me to silence, out of fear of misusing my words. But now, that fear has transformed into reverence for the power of language. I walk through life with the awareness that my words can add value to others.

Language is perhaps the most powerful tool we possess. To know this is to accept the responsibility that comes with it. As Maya Angelou said, “When you know better, do better.” Let us use our words wisely, with intention and care, for they shape the world in ways we often cannot see.