She remembered a story she had once heard: a woman had…
““She remembered a story she had once heard: a woman had gossiped about her neighbors and later regretted what she said. She went to the rabbi and asked how she might take back her words. He instructed her to take a feather pillow to the top of the highest hill and tear it open, letting the feathers fly every which way. Then, the rabbi said, she should return to him and he would tell her what to do. She did as he said and when she returned, he told her to go outside and gather the feathers. But that's impossible, she cried. They're already scattered all over the village. He looked at her and smiled. The same is true of your words, he said.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Words, once spoken, cannot be fully taken back; their impact spreads beyond control, like scattered feathers.
In simple terms: Spoken words are irreversible.
Key Takeaway
Choose words carefully; they linger.
Themes
communication
responsibility
consequences
Mood
thoughtful
cautionary
Type
ethical
literary
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- conflict mediation
- teaching
- writing
Key Concepts
language ethics
interpersonal dynamics
forgiveness
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we mitigate harm after harmful words?
- What practices help restore trust?
A Different Perspective
It may overstate the impossibility of repair.