Ambiguity of Silence

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The practice of silence has its risks because silence is not always a value. There is an unhealthy and negative silence, a silence of death. Non-communication can express mute rebellion, obstinate refusal, deep resentment. By not speaking, one can often avoid being challenged, avoid taking a stand, avoid the relationship that may become too involving, avoid the demands of love. Silence may be a sign of an under developed personality, and introspective, suspicious, moody, morose type of character. Or silence may indicate a vacuum of indifference and be the sign of a haughty, aloof disinterestedness. Such silence is a closure, a selfish shutting-the-world-off, withdrawal behind closed doors posted with a “Do Not Disturb” sign.


CHARLES CUMMINGS, OCSO Monastic Practices

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