Great question! Modern society seems to have no respect for the wise, silent type. The rule of the day is to shout things out and be seen--to be a "big personality" even if an idiotic one. In between all of the loud chatter from the TV, radio, motivational speakers, and everyday people trying to outshine each other with egoism, there is no room to hear the small but eloquent thoughts of the wise men.
I've noticed, watching presidential debates the past decade, that people don't really debate anymore. Even in Congress, they don't get together to try to actually solve society's problems--but to try to win votes and make the other side look bad. I see this in my personal relationships too, and am going to try to start encouraging a more helpful way of sharing opinions among my friends--one that has more room for quiet contemplation before speaking.
OH, for better self-restraint . . . . sigh.
ReplyDeleteGreat question! Modern society seems to have no respect for the wise, silent type. The rule of the day is to shout things out and be seen--to be a "big personality" even if an idiotic one. In between all of the loud chatter from the TV, radio, motivational speakers, and everyday people trying to outshine each other with egoism, there is no room to hear the small but eloquent thoughts of the wise men.
ReplyDeleteI've noticed, watching presidential debates the past decade, that people don't really debate anymore. Even in Congress, they don't get together to try to actually solve society's problems--but to try to win votes and make the other side look bad. I see this in my personal relationships too, and am going to try to start encouraging a more helpful way of sharing opinions among my friends--one that has more room for quiet contemplation before speaking.