Silence

"Always be on the lookout for the presence of wonder." E.B. White

(art by Johanna Wright)

Silence is a spiritual act. It is a protest against the chaos and noice, the consumerism and constant need for entertainment. It is a drawing inward in a world that so often wants us to remain external and shallow. Yet it is only when we spend time in silence that we can begin to experience true wonder.

Each morning, I drive to work in silence. It is a way to root and ground myself before all that a classroom of six and seven year-olds will bring into my class. The chaos of their home lives becomes the chaos of my classroom. Even when I arrive at school and sit at my desk, usually by 6:15 am, I sit there for awhile: still and silent. I breathe in and out slowly. I continue to root myself in silence and stillness. It is not always easy, especially when my anxiety brain can remind me of the million and one different things I will need to accomplish. Those who are very much about productivity and utilitarianism, might look at me and think: What a waste of time.

But it’s not.

Thomas Merton wisely wrote, “In a world of noise, confusion and conflict it is necessary that there be places of silence, inner discipline and peace. In such places love can blossom.” This is what I want for my life, for my classroom. This small act, this sacred practice is part of my striving towards a place of peace and love.