I have often repented of having spoken, but never of having been silent.

-- Abba Arsenius the Great

Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak...

-- James

This counsel, from both Holy Scripture and this saint of old, remind us of a great truth. Too often we open our mouths when we should remain quiet.

• Not every word deserves a remark
• Not every comment warrants a comeback
• Not every action requires commentary

If there is but one shortcoming in our society today - and we know there are many more than this - it is the clamoring sound of a million voices striving for the last word.