The Power of…silence.
I remember watching a campaign ad that had just been released. As the images faded in and out, I realized there was only music…no words. The only message was the one that was written on the screen matching each image.
I am often amazed at the power of silence. A power I truly wish I personally fully understood and harnessed. But alas, my words usually find their way out into the world as we know it.
Do you ever notice that when someone sits silent, there’s a tendency to think they might just know something we don’t know? It’s like they are holding in some grand secret that will be disclosed only at the proper place and time. And we await that moment with baited breath.
Then, there’s the person who, that whatever comes into their mind you can bet will exit their mouth. Those folks don’t always realize it, but many times, the expression of their thoughts is simply dismissed by their hearers.
How many times have I heard that little voice deep in my own heart warn me, “Keep it to yourself.” But, alas, my pride or whatever it is at the moment gets the best of me.
If you are just dying to say something today, but that warning system seems to be quietly beeping deep down inside, might I suggest, “Save it.” Save the expression of your frustration for a better time. A better place.
There’s an ancient proverb, or two, that backs up that tidbit of advice. It goes like this:
Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is considered wise; when he closes his lips he is considered prudent. Proverbs 17:28
I like this one too:
A time to tear apart and a time to sew together; a time to be silent and a time to speak. Ecclesiastes 3:7
Just my thoughts. Yours?
S.
