Dr. Tan Tek Seng

DAILY REFLECTION

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”
Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭29‬ ‭

Words carry weight. They can plant seeds of hope, ignite courage, and build up a soul or they can crush a spirit and leave lasting wounds.

In May 2024, Satomi, a 25-year-old employee at a Japanese cosmetics company, tragically died by suicide. Her depression was reportedly triggered by repeated verbal abuse from the company president. The Tokyo District Court ruled in favor of her family in September 2025, confirming that the president’s harassment contributed to her death. The company issued a formal apology, paid ¥150 million in compensation, and the president resigned. Among the cruel remarks, Satomi was publicly called “a stray dog”- a phrase that stripped her of dignity and reinforced shame. Even if she had erred professionally, the manner of correction was neither just nor humane. Constructive feedback should restore, not destroy. It should guide with grace, not condemn with cruelty.

Let Satomi’s story stir us to examine our own words. Are they healing or harming? Are they seasoned with grace or sharpened with judgment?

Ephesians 4:29 invites us to examine the power of our words - at home, at work, and in our communities. It reminds us that speech is not neutral; it reflects the condition of the heart. For those living a transformed life in Christ, every word becomes an opportunity to express love, speak truth, and extend grace.

“Words have the power to both destroy and heal"