The Sounds of Silence

Over the summer, the weather and the long days allow me to get some good time outside on my bike early in the morning or late at night.  I typically put in 30+ miles or so early Saturday or Sunday Morning and while I leave with the intentions of getting some exercise, I get something else I really need, SILENCE.  For 90+ minutes, all I hear is the wind and the birds, and as I look back, I think it is just as therapeutic as it is good exercise.  The more time passes, the more clear my mind gets, and I am able to reflect on the things that are most important to me that I don't normally get a chance to think about.

As you go through the day, pay attention to how much time is spent reading, listening, and watching anything but your own thoughts.  Just today, I had the news on during breakfast, talk radio on the way to school, and I am even listening to music while I am writing this.  In today's world of ipods, internet, t.v.s on every wall, and cell phones, there is not a lot of Silence in our lives.

Leave the ipod home on your next walk or run, turn the radio off in the car, and you will be surprised what you hear and who you hear.  If you are a swim coach like me, never let your swimmers complain of not being able to talk or listen to music during practice.  The Sounds of Silence are important to thinking clearly, and making sense out of this crazy journey.

Lamentations 3:26

English Standard Version (ESV)

26 It is good that one should wait quietly
    for the salvation of the Lord.