Volume XIII, Number II

In an increasingly noisy world, KidSpirit writers and artists pause to reflect on the value of silence. When is it necessary? When is it harmful? How can we appreciate the beauty of a moment of stillness amid tumultuous times? Consider the issue’s the myriad perspectives, then use these conversation starters to forge your own exploration into the power of being quiet.

1. In the Big Question department, editor Sofia Mesh reflects on how low self-esteem once led her to receding into silence. In “My Grandmother and I: What Is The Effect of Silence?,” Sofia explains how her beloved grandmother made her feel insecure, and how she was only able to begin her healing process by breaking her silence and seeking help. Think about a time when someone you respect made you feel insecure. What helps you to overcome these kinds of insecurities?

2. Abraham Weitzman shares the vast importance of silence in his Interfaith Connections article, “Silence Is a Gift.” Abraham, who must use adaptive technology to communicate, recognizes the power of silence to force people to listen deeply to one another and, thus, find deeper points of connection. He also observes how silence opens one up for more profound observational experiences, both in raucous company and in solitudinous nature. Think about a place where you feel a deep appreciation for nature or your community. Partner with a neighbor to share your descriptions of this place. When your partner is speaking, do your best to resist responding or thinking about your own ideas. How did it feel to actively listen? How did it feel to be actively listened to? Is this kind of listening something you experience in your day-to-day life?

3. In “Silence: The Loudest Sound,” a Feature article by Fizza Raza, we learn about the applications of silence in music, cinema, and other art forms. Fizza illuminates the ways that the contrast between silence and sound, whether between musical notes or between sentences, is in itself a source of art’s evocative power. Consider your favorite movie, song, or piece of art. What impact does this piece of art have on you? How do its silent or empty aspects help create this impact?

4. J. Brent Bill, a writer and Quaker minister, contributes this issue’s PerSpectives article. In his article "Outward Noise; Inward Silence," Bill explains and advocates for the importance of practicing silence to counteract the pressures and distractions that come from our noisy world. He stresses the importance of being quiet, even and especially when one is overwhelmed with busyness, advising that “...the next time you’re really swamped and the alligators are up to your neck, you can decide to go into full panic mode . . . or you can take a breath. A breath doesn’t keep the gators from circling nearer, but it creates space for solutions.” Take a minute to consider the list of tasks and worries you have in your head right now. How does this make you feel? Now, spend a minute being silent and breathing deeply. Do you feel differently after?