A wise person will hear, will increase learning; and a person of understanding shall attain unto wise counsel. (Proverbs 1:5)

Helen Keller was left deaf and blind by an incurable childhood illness. A patient and persistent teacher, Anne Sullivan, taught her to read through her senses of touch, smell and taste.

At the close of her autobiography, Helen Keller writes:

Fate–silent, pitiless–bars the way. Fain would I question His imperious decree; for my heart is undisciplined and passionate, but my tongue will not utter the bitter, futile words that rise to my lips, and they fall back into my heart like unshed tears. Silence sits immense upon my soul. Then comes hope with a smile and whispers, “There is joy in self-forgetfulness.” So I try to make the light in other people’s eyes my sun, the music in others ears my symphony, the smiles of others’ lips my happiness.

Silence can be used to nurture pouting, anger, and hatred. Far better uses for silence are reflecting, meditating, and listening. It is only when we are truly silent before God that we can hear the “still, small voice” speaking in our very souls.

Blessed Creator, may we sit before You in silence that we might hear You speak to our hearts and souls!