The Art Of Biting Your Tongue

someone criticizes
anticipating
defensive responses

say nothing

even though
circumstance
begs for more words

remaining quiet
art of
holding your tongue

don’t offer advice
explanations
opinions

these actions
usually
don’t help

art of
not being
lured into action

it takes
considerable strength
a special skill to be quiet

neither
passive
nor weak

many speak too often
say too much
say hurtful things

remain silent

silence creates tension
avoid temptation
to fill gaps with words

when being quiet
would be more
effective

art of
using powerful
but invisible weapons

speaking is
not as important
as people think

have the
strength
to stay quiet

not speaking
is often exactly
what is needed

offering
a chance
to reflect

words
not heard
often hit the target

© 2023 Raibeart Bruis