The Perfect Word

I have always had a fascination for the perfect word.  Words are things of such beauty and power-- the well- chosen word can lead to perfect understanding between potential enemies, or it can cause a schism among a group of people who have sworn their allegiance and friendship for life.  The placement of a comma, it is said, caused a schism in Christianity and led to the formation of the Western Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church.  This event demonstrates how important the right word, phrase or image is in written and verbal communication.  On the more positive side, what Shakespeare wrote is true: the pen is mightier than the sword.  It can bring an end to tensions between conflicted nations, cause bridges of common purpose to be built and strengthen weakening ties between old allies.  Words harm and words inspire because they are the basis for modern communication and can convey the most complex ideas in the simplest manner.  People should show more care with words, for they are delightful and dangerous at the same time!