Silence can never be quoted

By Leymah R. Gbowee

Some sister-friends and I faced certain interpersonal concerns a few months back. Amid this issue, the potential for negative publicity and smear campaign was very high. As we navigated the situation, emotions naturally were high, as some of them believed we were wrongfully targeted and needed to strike back.

One sister-friend, in particular, was in full combat mode and was ready to fight tooth and nail. As we discussed the issue, I reflected on my position. As upsetting as the situation was, I believed we had to avoid entering combat mode. My reason: “Silence can never be quoted.”

In those moments of high emotions, it was important for my sister-friends and I to be quiet and let the situation simmer down. Then, any statement or interaction from us would have exploded into a substantial social and mainline media mess. We all chose to be silent, and thankfully, the issue was resolved without any smearing campaign.

As a ‘public figure,’ I am constantly judged by things I supposedly did or didn’t do. In many instances, friends and family say why don’t you say something and my response usually is that some things need no comments.

Don’t get me wrong, there are moments when one must speak up, but there are also moments where silence is the key. This is perfectly put in Proverbs 17:27-28, “The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered. Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues (NIV).”

In this era of social media, where people assume they have access to your life based on posts about what you did or didn’t do, silence is golden as it can never be quoted.

• Leymah R. Gbowee a Nobel Peace prize winner writes for National Daily Newspaper www.nationaldailyng.com