When we think of free speech we immediately think of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. We do have the constitutional right to free speech. Yet, just because we have the right to say what we want, doesn't mean there isn't a cost to what we say.

• Too often we take our right of free speech for granted without understanding we have an equal responsibility for the consequences.
• We can't ignore the fact that how we communicate sets the stage for the kind of relationships we have.
• To be successful in our relationships and life, in general, we must care that our words and actions define us and what we value.