Not everything that happens needs our comment. Not everyone needs to be burdened with our opinion. Yet so many times we feel the need, the urge, the desire to let it be known. Our culture encourages sharing ad infinitum. Let it out. Tell it like it is. Spare no effort. Be heard now. And it’s easier than it has ever been: social media, instant messaging, podcasts and blogs. (The irony is not lost on me!)

Of course, I want to be heard…and there is a balance I strive toward at the same time. This effort is informed by a quote from Ramana Maharshi: Silence is unceasing eloquence. It is the best language.

Just think about it for a minute…the value of silence. The value of holding back rather than blathering. The eloquence of simply being present, in the language of silence. It is the practice of harnessing my mind and putting it in its rightful place behind my heart.

The mind is full of judgment and fear, ideas of right and wrong. It rejects discomfort, spins tales masquerading as truth, craves the illusion of security and safety. The mind seems to be rarely satisfied. And from this mind comes our opinions and comments? What are they worth?

Ah, but in the pause, in a moment of silence the heart whispers: I see you. We are the same. And in this moment no words are necessary. Eloquence.

With much love
Paula