Silence

(WK4)

The last class was interesting. I liked how we discussed the power of silence and how people react to different situations. Most people like having a friend to talk to rather than being alone. Some people are afraid of being alone and cannot tolerate silence so they need someone to comfort them. I find that people say they are "bored" and they constantly run around doing things in a frenzy to keep the silence away. I believe if you love and understand yourself it is okay to be alone and allow silence and space in your life. As weird as it sounds, people don't appreciate being bored. We get all wrapped up in always having to be with someone or always running around from place to place when we can be by ourselves and appreciate it. We all deserve a break from our hectic lives sometimes. I choose to be alone at times and have gone to the movies or the beach by myself. I come back happy. People don’t understand how I can be alone and be happy.

My zodiac sign tells me I love people. Yes I am a people person; always wanting to make sure everyone is happy and comfortable. Yet I enjoy my space and alone time too. I have also wanted to try what Eric did with his friends -- sitting back with friends in silence for an hour and then talking about it. A lot of people just react to the awkward silence and almost immediately start talking or acknowledge the awkwardness of the situation. I have yet to accomplish this goal simply because every time I try and be quiet, everyone thinks I am mad and they worry. This also applies to me when it comes to homework. I have my days where I like to get out of my room and do work and with a small crowd of people and other days where I do work alone. I get my work done so much faster with less distractions and conversations with friends. Of course everyone cares about pleasing people and being able to be around when everyone else is but I prefer working alone. Silence is a very powerful thing, sometimes stronger than words. I have very few friends that can understand that talking is not always necessary to make a point or conversation. I can sit with my best friend for hours and not feel pressured to talk none stop because we are so comfortable with each other. On the other hand, if people are shy and do not know each other very well it can make things awkward and then people don’t know how to handle the awkward situation. (450)