Silence

When we think of the word silence and all of its possible meanings, many uses may come to mind; Silence in language, gestures and symbols, in music, in debate, in law, in spirituality, commemorative silence and complete silence. Each of these has a power unto themselves that produce differing feelings in each of us. Some of us love silence as it is a respite from the noise and chatter of the world that surrounds us. Others feel uncomfortable with silence as it causes us to have to be with ourselves and we struggle with that.

As a Rabbi, Spiritual Counselor and Sober Coach, I have become able to find and cherish the joy of silence in prayer and meditation. I am blessed with the opportunity to see the happiness on the face of a client or congregant when they experience that silent place within them finding peace and serenity for the first time.

There was a time in my life when I felt the need to always maintain the flow of conversation, turn up the volume, have the last word, answer questions that were never asked of me by lawyers and in general, avoid silence at all costs. Over time I have learned the joy and beauty of silence in my life for I no longer have a need to neither refute your beliefs nor convince you of what I believe. I no longer have to speak to be heard as I have learned to listen and listen to learn. I have also found, and this is the highlight of this message for me, that the more able I am to quiet me down internally the closer I get to the divine presence within me.

Finding silence has added a whole new and fulfilling dimension to my life. My prayer for you today is that you allow yourself to find your silence and allow it to elevate you to your place of divinity within you however you define that.