This quote invites us to reconsider our understanding of silence and communication. Often, silence is perceived as a void or a sign of absence, but the perspective presented here suggests that silence can be filled with profound meaning. It's a reminder that some messages or truths aren't conveyed through words but through moments of quiet and stillness. These pauses may serve as crucial intervals for reflection, anticipation, or spiritual receptivity, rather than mere absence. The analogy of ebbs and flows implies that pauses in our lives or in divine communication are transient—and essential—stages that prepare us for greater understanding when the "flow of meaning" returns. Recognizing that divine or meaningful messages may sometimes be cloaked in silence encourages humility and patience in our spiritual journeys. It hints at the idea that divine speech isn't limited to words as we know them; instead, it can manifest in nuanced, subtle ways that transcend our current ability to perceive fully. This perspective fosters a deeper appreciation for moments of quiet, urging us to be attentive and receptive, trusting that even in silence, there is a dynamic and purposeful communication unfolding. Ultimately, it challenges us to expand our perception of dialogue, embracing silence as a vital component in the ongoing conversation between the divine and ourselves.

( The Crucible of Doubt: Reflections On the Quest for Faith ) by --Terryl L. Givens--