“In Silence” by Chiharu Shiota

“The silence that, without any deferential air, listens with polite attention, is more flattering than compliments, and more frequently broken for the purpose of encouraging others to speak, than to display the listener’s own powers. This is the really eloquent silence. It requires great genius—more perhaps than speaking—and few are gifted with the talent.”  — Arthur Martine

“…And still I feel I said too much
My silence is my self defense…”  — Billy Joel

Life — mine, because I cannot speak to yours — has ground to a paralytic halt.

There are so many things I could say, but won’t; should say, but can’t; would say, but the moment has passed by like clouds in the night. Also, discretion and the possibility that I may possess a modicum of good taste prevent me, knowing that words often accomplish more harm than good. It is also very likely that I have nothing to say.

In the meantime, I should try this silence that Arthur Martine extols.