Silence

Silence Silence can give comfort It’s a perfect hiding place Where sometimes we choose to retreat For hours or for days But even though we choose to be Without disturbing noise This should not mean that we prefer To be without a voice A voice to make a statement A voice to take a stand A voice that parts not with the truth When lies are in high demand Outspokenness is a virtue When integrity has its back Why speak out, but when in a jam We cower and backtrack? Be silent then, and do not speak For spoken words will travel Into the ears, into the minds They hamper or unravel Speak up when it will save a soul When it’s right and justified No room for cowardice and fear Their access is denied Choose for a voice, don’t quiet down Be bold with grace and poise And have your silence when preferred But don’t be without a voice. Wendy Nipas