The Pope and the sounds of silence

“Silence is a precious commodity” … in a world with a ….”surcharge of stimuli and data.”

The Pope

I don’t usually agree with the Pope but he struck a chord with me today – well, a silent chord, a lost chord even.

Listen to the man:

“It is often in silence that we observe the most authentic communication taking place between people in love: gestures, facial expressions and body language are signs by which they reveal themselves to each other.”

The Artist

It was brought home to me, the importance of silence between people when I went to see that wonderful film The Artist this week – the movie that says so much whilst remaining silent.

I didn’t feel entirely damned by His Holiness’ further remarks either. Apparently he is well clued in to the World of the internet and doesn’t see it as a modern curse like so many traditionalists do. I doubt if he has accessed these pages yet – maybe one day he will honour the Wolf with his presence.

“In our time, the internet is becoming ever more a forum for questions and answers – indeed, people today are frequently bombarded with answers to questions they have never asked and to needs of which they were unaware…Attention should be paid to the various types of websites, applications and social networks which can help people today to find time for reflection and authentic questioning, as well as making space for silence.”

I thought I would support the idea and offer you all a few moments of, well if not complete silence then a tranquil atmosphere for you to contemplate whatever you will in silence or just without talking at least.

It feels very silent here today, sitting here at my computer with the glorious song from a blackbird sitting outside my window. Have a listen – and if you don’t want to just take my word for it, or the Pope’s, scroll down and listen to Simon and Garfunkel’s take on the same idea. Thanks to however put up the lyrics – I’m sure the Pope will forgive the spelling.

Peace be with you!

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