The quote, "Words exist because of meaning; once you’ve gotten the meaning, you can forget the words," essentially emphasizes the instrumental role of words as carriers of meaning. The primary function of language is to communicate, to express thoughts, ideas, and emotions. However, once the message or the meaning has been understood, the specific words used to convey it become less significant. This is because the ultimate goal of communication is not the words themselves, but the understanding or the meaning they convey.
This idea can be applied in various aspects of today’s world. In the field of communication, for instance, it underscores the importance of effective communication where the focus should be on conveying the intended message rather than using complex or sophisticated words. In a world that is increasingly global and diverse, the ability to communicate effectively across different cultures and languages is more important than ever. This means prioritizing clear and understandable language over jargon or terminology that might not be as universally understood.
In personal development, this idea can be applied in the way we perceive and process information. Often, we get caught up in the exact words or language used, rather than focusing on the underlying message or meaning. This can lead to misunderstandings or misinterpretations. By focusing more on the meaning behind the words, we can develop better understanding and empathy, and improve our interpersonal relationships.
Moreover, it can also be applied in the realm of learning and education. The true aim of learning should not be to memorize words or facts, but to understand the underlying concepts and ideas. Once we’ve grasped the meaning, the specific words or facts can be forgotten, because we’ve internalized the essence of what we’ve learned.
In conclusion, while words are crucial tools for communication and learning, their ultimate purpose is to convey meaning. Once that meaning is understood, the specific words used become less important. This concept has wide-ranging applications in our world today, from effective cross-cultural communication to personal development and education.