Have you ever felt like no one is listening to you, where you just want even one person to look you straight in the eye and show you honest to goodness that someone is there for you. I find that happens more often than not. There were times that I was really excited about an event that happened in my life, or I felt the need to share news with a friend, but no one was around to hear me out or give me feedback. It's almost like having a door shut on your face, and all that is left is silence from the other end. We live in a world where sending selfies, texting one another nonstop emojis and Facebook messaging is becoming the norm. It is rare that two friends can have an afternoon of hanging out without taking pictures, or having a conversation be cut short when a cell phone rings. It's the awkward silence that is just left there hanging. Silence can be a good thing once in a while when the two individuals have nothing else to contribute, but sometimes it is uncomfortable among one another.
"Speak only when you feel that your words are better than your silence." After digesting this quote, it can certainly relate to people who feel this way. The more and more I think, it's better to not say anything than something mean or cruel.
I found inspiration for this article by occasionally observing two deaf people sign to each other; it truly amazed me and got my mind rolling with ideas. How is it possible that two people who can not hear a single sound or noise can sit across from one another and by using expressions and hand gestures, they can have an entire conversation without distractions and a simple phone call ruining the moment. Silence really is a powerful tool that can either get the message across or can leave someone lost and confused. I have found that in situations where I am talking to a friend and there is no sign they are taking interest in what I am saying, I usually cut the conversation short because why waste my breath and effort when I will feel alone.
The solution to this problem is simple, don't let silence become a habit when you are in the presence of an individual who has shown interest in talking. What I would recommend to some people is when two friends are catching up over a coffee, going on a picnic or even an afternoon in the sun, put your phone away, turn any distractions off and put your listening ears on. Trust me, it will make a world of difference. It will show that 1) you are excited and eager to hear what they have to say, and 2) your attention is on them and no one else. If there are moments when they are suddenly silent, don't interrupt them — give them a few minutes to collect their thoughts and to say what is really on their mind. Often silence for someone can mean they are lost in their words or they are afraid to say what is next on their mind. Silence is a source of great strength.
