Ask yourselves five questions before you speak
“Wise men speak because they have something to say; Fools because they have to say something”.
Plato

Silence and smile can do wonders for us. By remaining silent, and speaking only when it is absolutely essential, we can avoid controversies and misunderstandings with others. A smile can melt the hardest heart and spread warmth and love around.
However, total silence is neither possible nor desirable in our daily lives. We need to communicate with others to keep the wheels of social life moving.
We must weigh our words before we open our mouths. Our words can make a lasting impact on others. People will forgive our actions but not our words especially if we had spoken harshly, abusively and rudely to them.
The mouth should have five gatekeepers. These are questions we should pose to ourselves before we speak.
Is it true?
Is it kind?
Is it helpful?
Is it inspiring?
Is it necessary?
Is it true?
More often than not, we blurt out something without considering whether it is true or not. Especially when we are commenting on the choices made by others based on hearsay and rumours. We gossip about our friends and relatives and our bosses. Please try to ascertain the facts before you speak about anything. What we have heard or even seen may not tell the entire story. There is more to things than meets the eye. Appearances are deceptive.
Is it kind?
Our words must never hurt others. Speak softly and kindly as far as possible. Never use harsh words even if you are angry. Be firm without offending others. If you want to express disagreement do it in a polite manner. A kind word can dissipate negativity and spread happiness all around.
Is it helpful?
Uttering politically statements do not add value to others’ lives. Bland speeches are stale and evoke disgust if not antipathy. What we speak must help others in some way like clearing their doubts or making suggestions to improve their lives or help in tough situations. For instance, we can tell a person suffering from depression to accept the situation and try to come out of the misery with the help of therapy or medications.
Is it inspiring?
We are not supposed to talk like life coaches or great philosophers in our everyday conversations. Yet, telling inspiring things can motivate people who are low in confidence or comfort those facing personal tragedies.
Is it necessary?
This is the most important question. Is it necessary to speak and if so are we using the right words? Sometimes a nod or a smile or a gentle touch is preferable to speech. Silent and meaningful gestures speak louder than words. If there is a choice between silence and speech, choose the former.
You see, silence can never be misquoted.
Thanks for reading. Please clap liberally if you liked this story.