Every crisis has two stories — the one that’s happening and the one that’s told
And the gap between panic, calm, and inaction often comes down to the messenger, not the message.

The Storm Lesson
I was watching a program called Eye of the Storm. A terrible storm was bearing down on a small town. And I realized something: the attitude, tone, and presence of the person delivering the warning would decide how the town reacted.

Overreact, and you fuel chaos.

Underplay the danger, and people get hurt.

Hit the sweet spot, and you prepare people without paralyzing them.

That sweet spot? That’s leadership in action.

Parenting and Emotional Inheritance
I see this in parenting all the time. A mom, dad, aunt, or uncle can unintentionally pass their fears onto children.

“Oh my God, LIGHTNING! Stay away from the faucets! Don’t shower! Don’t drink water — you’ll get struck!”

The adult panics, protecting themselves first, leaving the child emotionally stranded.
That moment becomes a blueprint for how that child will respond to fear for years to come.

If instead, the adult says calmly:

“Lightning is powerful, so let’s stay inside where it’s safe. We can watch from the window.”

The child learns that danger can be respected without being exaggerated. They learn that caution and curiosity can live in the same moment.

Leadership in the Workplace
In business, the same truth applies.
A team’s reaction in tough times mirrors the leader’s tone.

Overreact and people scatter.

Underreact and they’re caught off guard.

Deliver the truth with confidence, and they respond with focus instead of fear.

Your tone becomes the culture’s heartbeat.

The Takeaway
Whether you’re talking to your kids, your team, or your community — you are the messenger.
The courage, composure, and emotional calibration you bring to your message will decide the outcome.

In every eye of the storm, be the steady hand.
How you say it is just as important as what you say.

Share your thoughts:
How have you seen tone make or break a situation? Comment below — I’d love to hear your story.