1. Words Make Us Human
“Without words, there is no thought.”
Lee O-Young, one of Korea’s most revered intellectuals, never saw language as merely a tool for communication. For him, words are the very foundation of human existence. They bridge the inner world and the outer world, self and society, and past and present.
In his writings, words are more than sounds or text—they are logos, the cosmic principle that gives order and meaning to life. Just as the Bible states, “In the beginning was the Word,” Lee saw language as the beginning and essence of being.
2. The Silence of Words is the Loss of Humanity
Lee O-Young warned of a modern era in which words lose their depth. In a digital age filled with shallow texts, emojis, and lightning-speed reactions, we may appear to communicate more—but we understand less.
He saw this as the “disappearance of meaningful speech,” and with it, the collapse of genuine relationships. Words that once built bridges now risk becoming barriers. His message is clear: words must be treated with reverence, for they are the lifeblood of true human connection.
3. Words Can Heal—or Harm
Among Lee’s most powerful ideas is this: “Words can save a life—or destroy it.” He admitted that in his younger years as a fierce critic, he hurt people with sharp remarks. But later in life, he came to realize the profound emotional and spiritual weight of words.
He once shared how a simple phrase like “I’m praying for you” gave him deep comfort during a time of illness. For him, this was proof that words are not mere expressions—they are acts of healing.
4. Silence and Speech: The Two Sides of Wisdom
Although Lee emphasized the power of speech, he also deeply valued silence. “True words are born in silence,” he often said. In a world overloaded with noise, thoughtful silence can be more powerful than endless talking.
This perspective resonates with Eastern philosophy, especially Laozi’s saying: “Those who know do not speak, those who speak do not know.” For Lee, silence is not the absence of speech—it is the sacred space where meaningful words take root.
5. Words as a Path to the Spiritual
In his seminal work From Intelligence to Spirituality, Lee argued that words should lead us beyond logic to love, faith, and grace. The highest form of speech, he believed, is one that connects us to the divine.
He described these as prayerful words, words of comfort, or words that call others into being. Such speech is not transactional, but transformational—it heals, uplifts, and sanctifies human relationships.
6. The Ethics of Speech: Reclaiming Education
Toward the end of his life, Lee turned his attention to young people and the way we teach language. He believed true education begins not with grammar or eloquence, but with teaching words that give life.
Speech education, in his view, should be a moral practice—one that trains people to speak with truth, kindness, and responsibility. It’s not just about speaking well, but about being a better human through speech.
Conclusion: What Kind of Words Are We Speaking?
Lee O-Young’s reflections on words challenge us to reflect on our own language. Are our words healing or harming? Do they connect or divide? Do they carry meaning, or are they empty noise?
Words are more than tools—they are choices, responsibilities, and reflections of who we are. After reading Lee’s thoughts, I am more mindful of my speech and more hopeful that one day, my words may become seeds of life for someone else.