Flak vs. Abuse

“They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their bitter words like arrows.” (Psalm 64:3 NLT)

We have all known people who use their sharp tongues and bitter words as weapons of attack. Constant criticism and bullying can erode one’s dignity and sense of self-worth.

“We can learn to live with a little flack in the name of healthy self-care. Not abuse mind you. Flack.” (The Language of Letting Go by Melody Beattie)

The word ‘flak’ originally meant anti-aircraft artillery directed at combat pilots. These days we use the word metaphorically to mean criticism or hostility directed at an individual. When does flack become abuse? When it causes damage! If a plane is flying at an altitude beyond the range of the anti-aircraft fire, flack is just a nuisance. However, if the missiles are long range, or the plane is within reach, results are deadly. Similarly, words and attitudes can turn from noise to abuse depending on how close the source is  to the target. Condemnation and denigration from those who are supposed to care for us can eventually bring even the strongest of us down.