I make the rules

On Silence

All of our meals are in silence. There is no need to find the table with the "coolest" people, no need to worry about finding a topic to talk about. It is just sitting, enjoying and gazing absentmindedly at the lake. During Karma Yoga, we do not talk much either. In theory that is. In reality, whole histories are shared while pruning rose bushes, brushing deities, or cleaning the stove. Until someone says: "Speech awareness". Are you aware of your own speech? Does what you say really have added value? Or do you simply feel uncomfortable with silence? Do you prefer to hear yourself talk instead of listening to others? Some people wear a "speech awareness" tag, as a reminder. I have even seen an "inner speech awareness" tag yesterday. And then there was Erica our happiest karma yogi, wearing a "no smiles" tag...

Still there is a lot of talk. Reflection is a huge part of the course. While we scribble away in our journals that never leave our side, we share from time to time. In twos, threes, fours or in the group. I often feel overwhelmed. So much talk! So I am "on silence" now. On prior silence retreats silence meant silence, and politeness was gone. Here, Shaun compliments me with my pretty tag (made by me), Kristina invites me to dance trees and birds with her, and Shelley and I sing a round of rejoice in the Light at our bedroom together. Despite these nice interludes, I miss my evening conversations with Shelley. Fortunately, talking on Skype doesn't count. After all, I make the rules.