Able Quote by Henning Mankell
“Not having time for a person, not being able to sit in silence together with somebody, that's the same as rejecting them, as being scornful about them.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Man Who Smiled, 1994
Rejecting someone's presence by refusing shared silence shows emotional neglect and disdain.
In simple terms: Ignoring silence equals rejection.
Give space and listen.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- friendships
- family gatherings
- therapy sessions
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you equate silence with rejection?
- How can shared silence build trust?
Silence can also be a healthy boundary; not always rejection.