An Open Letter | Joy M. Mills

The tongue is the deadliest weapon. It is quick, sharp like a sword; it is fire and full of poison.

I am sure you heard the expression, “Everyone is entitled to their opinion.” Perhaps you have even said it to yourself, maybe to head off an argument or bring one to a close.

Based on where the world is right now, I am in the mindset you are only entitled to what you can argue for, a bit harsh, perhaps? You can learn how to construct and defend an argument and recognize when a belief has become indefensible.

All too often, the problem with “I am entitled to my opinion” is that it is used to shelter beliefs that should have been abandoned. It becomes shorthand, or I can say or do whatever I like. By extension, continuing to argue is somehow disrespectful. I believe this attitude feeds into the false equivalence between experts and non-experts and is an increasingly pernicious feature of public discourse. What I see happening and what I wish would happen is silence – vaccinated versus non-vaccinated; masks versus non-masks; you voted for this person, I didn’t. These are all opinions, and everyone has one.

There is wisdom in silence. Silence gives the other person time to process their thoughts. Have you ever noticed that you make the most insight when you share with someone else by being allowed to speak without interruption? It helps to process one’s thoughts and possibly figure out a solution.

Remember, silence separates your emotions from their emotions. We can be a part of another person’s sharing without interference in telling them how they must feel. Silence stirs wisdom and seeks truth. Impulsive speaking can cause a more foolish or selfish reaction. Everything we hear goes through a selfish filter that needs to be processed before we can actually speak our words or respond.

When we detach ourselves from a situation, we can see so much clarity and conviction.

Written with love.

**This article is not intended to provide and does not constitute medical, legal or other professional advice. This article was written to support, not replace medical or psychiatric treatment. Please seek professional care if you feel you have a condition.