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We often speak more than needed in the course of normal conversation. This could include things we say to fill awkward silences or feeling the need to actively acknowledge what others say. It could also mean speaking before we completely formulate our thoughts or not being aware of what we say in the first place.
Whatever the reason, these examples point to the importance of what is called right speech. In the Buddhist tradition, right speech refers to making the best use of your words. What does this mean for us at a practical level?
It means being true to ourselves at a very deep level, and communicating that truth through our words. This is a key part of the idea of alignment between thought, word, and action. The goal here is to only say what we mean or what we will do, and following through on that word. It also means to not say things that we do not mean or do not intend to do.
The importance of this cannot be overstated. Why so? It has to do with the mechanics of the universe. Being prudent with our words begins to give them an inherent quality of truth.
We have all heard that intention is a powerful tool - the fact that if you believe or will something, that is a physical thrust towards manifestation in the world. Our words are nothing more than an extension of our intentions. And by being true to ourselves, our thoughts, and our desires in speech, we add power to these intentions making them more likely to manifest as reality.
It takes courage to be true to your word, and for your word to be true to you. For many of us, we live in fear of what other people may think if we do stay true to ourselves in every moment. But in the long run, we will find that people appreciate us all the more for being so true and honest in all that we think, say and do.