I began my TrulyLive.Us website and subsequently this blog with the intention to write about things that make us passionate about life or help us to live intentionally. For some reason, I have really struggled to come up with a topic to share this week; hence the silence.

Every thought that came to me either seemed redundant to something I’ve already said or, honestly, I just couldn’t come up with a positive spin on some of the thoughts I had, so I decided not to write until I had something encouraging to say.   I prayed, asking (pleading even) for something wise or encouraging, even something funny or relevant, but not one of the things that came to mind seemed right. So I decided it was better to say nothing at all.

Honestly, I struggled with that because I felt I had made a commitment to get something “published” early each week. I knew that I had no real deadline, but it was something I had promised myself I would do and I was disappointed that I couldn’t live up to my own expectations.   Fortunately, my need to say something relevant became more important to me than my need to meet a self-imposed deadline. It was a real struggle.

Then it struck me. Silence is the message! Remember when we used to say, “If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all?” Whatever happened to that sentiment? When did we decide that it was ok to say whatever is on our minds even if it is hurtful, hateful, negative, or simply just not positive? I don’t remember, but I sure do miss those days. Yes, there often were long, pregnant pauses in conversations as people searched for something appropriate to say, but I for one, much prefer that to the barrage of negativity that prevails in the world today. I think you know what I’m talking about. Please consider joining me in taking the vow of silence if you can’t think of anything positive to say and see if you don’t feel better in the end.

I will continue to work on positive, hopefully even encouraging, messages each week, but if I miss one, just know I’ll be back when I’m able to reflect what I believe is important. Have a great week!