Never Miss A Chance … To Keep Your Mouth Shut!

I have never read The First Law series, which is a series of graphic novels by Joe Ambercrombie. However, I came across a quote from Jezal dan Luthar (a character from that trilogy) that sets the stage for this blog:

“Just keep your mouth shut and smile. That’s always good advice”

A book that I have read also has lots to say about when to be quiet – the Bible.

Proverbs 21:23 says: Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.

It’s not always easy to “hold your tongue,” especially when others are not. You sometimes feel that when they are ranting or complaining, it is an open door for you to do the same. I know, it happens often to me – probably too often.

The Bible actually has many verses about ‘keeping quiet” in certain situations. I found this hit home and thought I’d share.

Believe me, there are plenty of times where I just need to keep things to myself. We all need to vent, though. Sometimes when you vent, you don’t need advice or someone’s opinion. You just want to tell somebody, and you just want someone to listen. And when you listen, don’t go sharing with everyone and everyone. I learned this lesson from Goodfellas!

“Never rat on your friends and always keep your mouth shut.” -Jimmy Conway, Good Fellas. 

This really is fantastic advice.  If you don’t agree with your friend, take it up with them, but your job as a friend is to keep your mouth shut and be there for them.  You don’t backstab them by running your mouth to others about their business.  If I have learned anything about what a friend’s role is, it is to be supportive and to provide a safe haven.  There are other plenty of other people to fill the judgmental roles…..

I guess what it all boils down to is what Mark Twain said ….

Just call me a fool …. from now on anyway …..