I grew up hearing that saying a lot! Today I learned there was more to this ancient proverb. I read “Speech is silver and Silence is golden,” is just part of the proverb and the source is unknown.

I enjoy silence. It allows me to think. Ideas create stories. Reading in silence allows for images to form. When it is quiet, I can make connections between things I’ve seen, experienced or read.

I don’t understand people who run or walk with earbuds. They are missing out on what is around them. Birds do sing, people say hello and little children laugh! All those wonderful things can be heard on a walk through my neighborhood.

Even though I value my golden silence, I also value the silver sounds of nature and loved ones voices. I suspect there are others who share my feelings.