Categories: Hazel Rosetta Smith,
The phrase “put in one’s two cents” means to express one’s opinion or point of view, regardless of its value to another. For example, during a meeting or conversation, you might say, “Well, here’s my two cents on the topic of discussion.”
You are expressing your opinion knowing that it may be of little value to the conversation. It is a chance one may take to interject humbly and politely.
Such an example would be “If I may put my two cents in, you might want to reconsider what you are saying.” That is a polite suggestive way of saying the words of another person do not make good sense and they should change their way of communicating.
By tossing in your two cents, you must be prepared to accept the reaction, be it positive or negative, and the fact that your suggestion may indeed be of little value, but you chose to make your unsolicited comment irrespective of any displeasure.
Do not be surprised if you become the recipient of such comments as “You just had to put your two cents in,” or “What you said is not worth two cents.” In any case, when you decide to put your opinion in the pot, there is a chance that you may end up with your feelings hurt as your two cents become a source of disruption. Often, your two cents are taken as destructive criticism, though that was not your intention.
Good sense and good advice are worth more than two cents if presented in a loving context of caring and sharing like a loving embrace. An apology may not be necessary if the approach came from a place of concern and sincerity. Clarity in speaking is most important, as even the best advice can be misunderstood.
Though the concept of putting one’s two cents in is taken as a negative gesture, there is The Widow’s Mite story, found in both Bible books, Mark 12:41-44, and Luke 21:1-4, which teaches that even small gifts can have great significance.
Many people came to the temple to make donations, and Jesus observed their offerings. A poor widow stepped forward and donated two small copper coins. The widow’s act exemplified true faithfulness. Her small gift counted more than the offerings of the rich. It was not about the amount; it was about her heart and trust in God.
So, the next time you feel the urge to chime in with your two cents, do not convince yourself that your input has no value. Even two cents can be an offer of immense value. There is a prayer that simply states, Oh Lord, help my words be gracious and tender today, for tomorrow I may have to eat them.
[Hazel Rosetta Smith is a journalist, playwright, and artistic director for Help Somebody Theatrical Ministries and HRS Speaks! Retired, former Managing Editor and Woman’s Editor of the New York Beacon. Contact: misshazel@twc.com and online www.hazelrosettasmith.com]
