See an bline,hear an deaf. (Not everything that is seen or heard must be shared with others.)

“Me, Miss, me Miss,” cries the student, excitedly seeking to give what he believes is the correct response, to show his knowledge. So often too, as adults, in our desire to demonstrate how much we know we are often quick to share stories that “I know...I was there, saw it with my own eyes.”

Fuelled by our desire to stand tall and look good in the eyes of the ones with whom we are sharing, we often forget the implications of the sometimes intensely personal information that we are so eager to share. Many times we forget that the information which we are so keen to pass on may hurt someone’s feelings, may jeopardize someone’s relationship, may cause disaffection with family and friends and may even endanger one’s life. Sadly, our motivation in such situations is to come across as being aware, knowledgeable...even superior.

The exhortation to exercise discretion, ‘See an bline, hear an deaf’ is one that we would do well to heed. Sometimes, there is virtue in being quiet, even feigning ignorance. It just may make the difference between life and death. ”

***

Help me remember that while speech may be silver, silence is considered golden. In the noise and the rush of life, let me recognize that in silence I can find peace.

30 –

Laje © 2008