Silence is a Spiritual Practice (Especially at a Family Cookout)
Silence is sacred. Use it like sunscreen and sage.
There comes a time when all words fail. That time is often midway through a family barbecue when someone starts a sentence with “Not to get political, but…”
And that’s when Tenet #4 of the Cult of Brighter Days kicks in: If you can’t be funny, be quiet.
1. Silence Is a Boundary
When your uncle starts ranting about “the good old days,” you don’t have to engage. You can take a long, contemplative sip of your lemonade and stare at the inflatable pool.
Sometimes saying nothing is louder than shouting.
2. Silence Is Restorative
You’re overstimulated. The kids are screaming. The grill is smoking. The patriotism is loud and unfiltered.
Step away. Sit under a tree. Let the wind say the things you don’t have energy to explain.
3. Silence Is Resistance
You don’t laugh at the cruel joke. You don’t “just let it go” when someone is being awful. You say nothing. You do not co-sign. You make your disapproval known by withholding your agreement.
4. Silence Can Be Self-Care
If your voice is trembling, if your patience is gone, if you feel like you’re about to snap—say nothing. Sit in the car. Pet the dog. Watch the clouds. Silence is sanctuary.
Final Blessing:
Silence is not surrender. It is wisdom. It is restraint. It is a loving way to stay present without being pulled into the storm.
The Cult of Brighter Days honors your quiet strength. We see you holding back words that could wound. That counts.
