Article May 3, 1913 Issue

SILENCE

DAISY WOODWARD.

In Proverbs we read, "In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise." How few there are who really appreciate the value of silence! Which of us, when troubles arise or difficulties confront us, can resist the temptation to tell our woes to a fellow mortal instead of availing ourselves of the priceless privilege of silent communion with God? We may argue that the Bible says, "Bear ye one another's burdens." Yes, and gladly do we give a word of cheer or a helping hand to a sister or brother toiling along the narrow road; but do we ever stop to think how much more quickly that burden might "vanish into its native nothingness" (Science and Health, p. 365) if we were content to be silent "about the space of half an hour" while we laid our problem before divine Love alone?

Perchance we sometimes think a cruel injustice has been done us; we feel sore and resentful, and as soon as an opportunity occurs we straightway pour our complaints into a sympathetic ear, thus encouraging a sense of self-pity; or, we may hear an unfavorable report of some one's conduct, and the temptation may come to repeat it to another, as error subtly whispers, "just to find out whether it be true," etc. What a blessing to take to heart the old saying, "Silence is golden," and instead of giving voice to error, to wrestle alone with it, as did Jacob, thereby proving the truth of our Leader's words, "The warfare with one's self is grand" (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 118).

Knowing that divine Love is ever present, ready to respond to every call, can we not trust more fully in His omnipotent, unfailing help, which so infinitely outweighs every human support, the clearest counsel and the tenderest love of mortals? Well may our hearts overflow with gratitude for the Christian Science reading-rooms all over the world, those quiet sanctuaries which, amid the toil and hurry of a busy day, afford to the seeker after Truth such golden opportunities for silent communion with our Father-Mother God.

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