In chapter 6, “The Spirit of Silence” we find the following:
“Therefore, since the spirit of silence is so important, permission to speak should rarely be granted even to perfect disciples”
I struggle to understand the balance between communication and silence as portrayed in the Rule. I have little experience with living in a community where silence is the norm. Over the past months I have tried to spend more time in silence and I find that I am enriched by the experience. Still, laughter, if it is not founded in rude or objectionable behavior brightens the soul and the mind. I find that I am much more productive after sharing laughter or some light conversation with others. On the other hand, communication that does not involve noise provides for an encounter that occurs at a much deeper level.
I am thinking, in particular, of the sacred dance I get to watch or participate in during the daily Mass. The Eucharistic Ministers seem to move in unison and words could never capture the depth of what is communicated between us with just a glance. Beyond the wish of peace and the words of consecration, we don’t need to speak to touch each other’s souls. What we say with our eyes reflects a shared devotion to the celebration of the Eucharist and the shared joy of our common ministry. To serve before the table of the Lord is to know communication made perfect.
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