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Rabbi Yoseph David, Aish HaTorah St. Louis joins Megan Lynch to talk about Clean Speech St. Louis and how it is offering a month long challenge designed to educate and raise awareness about mindful speech, inspiring individuals to use words that build rather than divide.

CLICK HERE to tune in to the podcast!

The Jewish value of Shmirat Halashon has ancient origins, but it’s never been more relatable than in the age of social media. It means “guarding one’s tongue” and essentially is a reminder that words matter. Whether it’s gossip, a snarky comment posted to someone’s Instagram or taking a stranger to task for not wearing a face mask indoors, the things we say have an impact.

Thirty-eight local Jewish organizations are working to create kinder and less hurtful communications. The effort is called Clean Speech St. Louis. It will begin March 1 and provide online tools to educate, inform and raise awareness about the power of words, gossip and slander.

“The goal is to teach people to choose words wisely,” said Rabbi Raphael Leban, founder of the Clean Speech movement. “When you become more sensitive to the way you’re communicating, it has a direct positive effect on all your relationships, and can be life-changing.”