“When there are many words, sin is unavoidable,
but the one who controls his lips is wise.” (10:19 HSCB).
We need to reclaim silence.
Why do we avoid silence?
I love technology, but it can be another vehicle of activity and chatter. It’s rare to sit through a movie without phone in hand, scrolling, scrolling, scrolling…
What lies beyond words?
Perhaps we’re afraid that without verbal communication there isn’t much substance to our relationships.
Powerful, two minute reads that have helped change the script in thousands of people's lives.
Don't be afraid.
Silence and stillness are not something to fear; embrace them. Our multitude of words clogs up the system. We need space to see each other, listen, and think. Without silence, you’ll never experience the depth of your soul or of others. There’s a reason why the Psalmist wrote:
“Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10).
Because where language is limited, silence is infinite.
If you don’t know what to say, try listening instead.
If you don’t have an answer to a question, try not answering it.
If you’re holding someone's secret, try keeping it.
I have found that holding someone as they cry says more than a thousand words.
Listening in an argument rather then yelling over the top of everyone communicates more than my words could.
Instead of going to God and pouring out my heart with a million syllables, silence grants me more comfort that any number of syllables could.
Ram Dass said: “The quieter you become, the more you can hear.” (Be still and know…)
Silence doesn’t create absence and emptiness, it makes room for presence.
You have a voice, and yes, it needs to be heard. Learning when to speak, and when to be silent, could be the greatest lesson you ever learn.
More tomorrow…
Written by Liz Milani
This series has been very inspiring to me. Silence is one of my favorite times of the day. Thank you for bringing it out.