What Silence Taught Me

I’ve been on a transformative journey over the past few years. And one of the activities I undertook during my journey was giving myself a daily timeout.

In the initial stages, these timeouts were brief, just a few minutes each day. However, as I started relishing the moments away from life’s incessant noise and distractions, I found myself dedicating hours to the tranquility of my room. In the stillness, my mind found repose, and my thoughts were gently calmed. Through this silence, it felt as if the universe itself was leading me out of the prolonged night of darkness that had enveloped me for several years.

Embracing silence and taking moments of solitude are often overlooked activities in our fast-paced lives. The fear of silence is deeply ingrained in us. Our conditioning emphasizes constant interaction, perpetual motion, and unceasing communication, making us uneasy in moments of quiet.

Yet, it’s vital to acknowledge that silence is not an adversary but rather a master healer and profound teacher. Reflecting on my experiences during self-imposed timeouts, here are some invaluable lessons I’ve gleaned from the therapeutic embrace of silence.

Contentment: I used to embody a Type-A personality—always busy, constantly on the go, relishing a bustling lifestyle. However, in pursuit of mental peace, I ventured into spending more time alone. Initially challenging for a natural people-person like me, the isolation gradually became a welcomed companion. I discovered that mental peace triumphs over the constant hum of activity. all else.

Simplicity: My life had evolved into a web of complexity with drama, arguments, and endless desires. The silence spoke to me, revealing that I didn’t truly need all that I possessed. I simplified my existence, relishing in the nostalgia of simple childhood meals, downsizing my wardrobe, and reducing social engagements. I even decided to close down some of my business ventures. The truth was, I didn’t need the excess baggage—less was indeed more.

Self-Control: In addition to my Type-A disposition, I grapple with being highly emotional. My feelings are worn on my sleeve, and impatience was almost ingrained within me. Through silence and isolation, I learned the art of self-control. I found the ability to rein in my tongue, exercise patience, and crucially, manage my thoughts. No longer do painful memories or events linger for more than 10 seconds, as I’ve gained mastery over the thoughts that enter my mental space.

Lest you think I’m destined for sainthood, let me also assure you that I’m far from that, lol.

  • I am still too emotional for my own good [deep sigh]
  • I am still quite driven [but now, no longer for the quest of money or position]
  • I still enjoy the finer things in life [sigh]

The writing of “WHAT EVERY SOUL WANTS” has truly been transformational. As I wrote, I introspected, and made sure that I wasn’t preaching what I couldn’t or wouldn’t want to or will practice. It was a journey that peeled back the layers, revealing not just the philosophies but the practicalities of spiritual growth.

In this process, I discovered the profound significance of mental peace. It became the cornerstone of my choices, the compass guiding me toward joy. I embraced the art of letting go, releasing the hold on possessions, desires, and ego that once drove my behaviors, thoughts, and actions. The ego, which often masked as ambition and success, took a back seat as I found a more authentic connection with my inner self.

It’s a journey, not to sainthood, but to a more genuine, joyous existence.

My book “What Every Soul Wants” sheds light on karma’s impact on our soul.

Click here to preview it today!

Email me at nipashahmi [at] gmail [dot] com to order a printed copy.

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