When I reflect on those times , what strikes me most is the opportunity my sisters and I could have had to use dad ’ s admonitions to enjoy our own peaceful silence . It is an experience I did not want lost on my own kids when they were younger , so my husband and I would at least occasionally use someone ’ s plea for quiet as a family reminder that silence is more than golden — it is a priceless path to fulfillment and joy .

Silence is the language of our soul . While we can connect to our higher self in spoken tongues — most notably via singing , chanting , prayer , and loving speech — the fastest route to inner peace is outer stillness . That ’ s because God / Source / Spirit is always whispering to us , but we must quiet our minds to hear . “ Being ” quiet ( not “ doing ” quiet ) allows us to hear the hum of the universe that we too often drown out with the louder — and harsher — thoughts in our head .

Many of us are uncomfortable around silence , as if it ’ s an enemy to be conquered with sound . If a room is quiet when we enter , we may reflexively turn on music or the TV , pick up the phone , or even talk to ourselves to fill the void . When we are with others , more than a few moments without conversation makes us squirm .

But your family can transform silence into the most freeing experience of the day . It helps everyone settle into a peaceful state . And it deepens interpersonal connections : Family members observing silence pay closer attention to one another ’ s needs , use touch as a form of communication , and can ponder situations rather than blurting the first mindless response that strikes us . ( I remember the first time I asked a swami a question , and he paused for several minutes before answering . I was floored with how he gave himself those moments to be insightful before speaking .)

Before you mumble about how you ’ re never going to get your kids to be quiet , know that resistance to silence is easily overcome once people experience its power . Get together with your family and agree on the best day and time to try it — preferably one that is free of too many commitments or interruptions . A good way to start is during a meal . Mindfully eaten food tastes extra delicious , your tongue ruminating over each exquisite bite . That ’ s why many ashrams and spiritual retreat centers make meals a time of enforced silence .

You may want to start with an initial period of just 15 minutes to an hour ( depending on the ages of your kids ), to give everyone

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