Words! Love them or hate them, it often feels like we’re drowning in the noise they create – not only in our own ears, or on the page, but in our heads. They have the power to uplift us and to cast us down, to liberate and to entrap. They create friendships and make enemies. They can gain us great wealth and lose us everything we possess. The power of speech is so great that words cannot do it justice.

As soon as a child learns to speak, its life and relationships change. Countless daily choices come next. Whether to speak loudly or quietly, fast or slow. What words to use. When to speak or to be silent. We learn how to use our speech through trial and error, and in doing so create an image and style that will define our personality and shape our lives.

Right speech is a commitment to use words skilfully, in a way that will bring peace and happiness to ourselves and the people around us. It is about using our speech to take away fear, to bring hope, to make people laugh and feel closer to one another. This is how we share who we are.

"It does not take many words to speak the truth."

• Chief Joseph

"To cultivate right speech, listen as you talk so that you hear, with your own ears, exactly what you say and how you say it."

• Ken McLeod

"Teach this triple truth to all: A generous heart, kind speech, and a life of service and compassion are the things which renew humanity.”

• The Buddha

"Speak when you are angry - and you'll make the best speech you'll ever regret.”

• Dr Laurence J. Peter

"Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will make me go in a corner and cry by myself for hours."

• Eric Idle