Off the Cuff

Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues. Proverbs 17:28 NIV

We all know that one person. That one person that knows everything about everything and has the only opinion available about everything. Chances are you really like that person and generally speaking, they are a good soul, but with a wayward tongue. You find yourself not saying much around them, not because they are dominating the conversation so much as you are not willing to have your known facts questioned by someone who doesn't know those facts. It's also possible you don't put much stock in what they say, doing your own research to come to a conclusion, even if it really does match with theirs.

Then we all know that one person who doesn't say much at all, saving what they want to say for times when they are asked either directly or they are clearly in the room because of what they have to say. It is in these people we tend to listen and not question as thoroughly as those who talk off the cuff. This is who the talker should try to emulate. There may be times when the non-speaker really doesn't know what's going on but because they only speak when there is certainty, there is more weight to their words.

I've learned over the course of my life to listen and process before I say anything - most of the time. Obviously emotions can sometimes take over but I have learned in my time that once words are said, your credibility can be shot for a lifetime. So I tend to take the high road and it's not an easy one, but I believe it's the correct course for me. I want to offer wisdom and clarity, not confusion and bad advice.

So just because I'm quiet, doesn't mean my mind isn't going 100 miles an hour. Discernment, which is what this proverb speaks about, is learned through practice and prayer. May we all get there one day.