The Curse and Blessing of Silence

I've watched this TED Talk video by slam poet and teacher Clint Smith over and over the last few days. Mr. Smith reflects on "The Danger of Silence" and asserts that "Silence is the residue of fear." His words are bold as he awakens us to the vital imperative of not only using our voices but also providing a culture for others in which they can use theirs. 

There is danger in silence when it is used, as Mr. Smith says, to "appease ignorance", to give permission for words and deeds that are inhumane. His words convict me as I remember times I chose to remain silently safe rather than speak up for what was right. 

 But then I know there are also times that my silence can be a gift:

•  when I choose to stop and listen when my teenage son says, "Can I tell you my side of the story?"
• when I listen to the story of a stranger
• when I seek to listen to that person with whom I disagree and try to understand his viewpoint
• when I receive negative feedback
• when I allow other ideas to be shared before mine

So as Ecclesiastes 3 says there is "a time to be silent and a time to speak".  My silence can be a danger or a gift ---my challenge is to learn the difference.