Bull in a China Shop

Bull in a China Shop

In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise. The tongue of the righteous is choice silver... the lips of the righteous feed many.
Proverbs 10:19-21

Recommended Reading
Proverbs 10:14-22

The phrase "bull in a china shop" comes from an old anonymous poem dating back two hundred years. It tells of a bull that darted through the door of a china shop before anyone could stop him, and every flick of his tail and thrust of his horns spelled disaster for the glassware. "The china shop master, a little fat man, popped in, and the bull at him furiously ran, caught him by the waistband without more ado, and tossed him completely the shop window through."

Sometimes we're like a bull in a china shop regarding the way we speak to others. We forget that people have fragile egos and situations are often delicate. Saying whatever we think is a sure way to break something precious. It's all right to be bold when the occasion demands it, but we should always be respectful of others and conscious of the benefit our words may do--or the damage they might inflict.

Be sure your brain is engaged before putting your mouth in gear. Happiness is often punctured by a sharp tongue.
Anonymous