Communication Quote by Stephen Cope
““Quoting from Thomas Merton Dialogues With Silence The true contemplative is not one who prepares his mind for a particular message that he wants or expects to hear, but is one who remains empty because he knows that he can never expect to anticipate the words that will transform his darkness into light. He does not even anticipate a special kind of transformation. He does not demand light instead of darkness. He waits on the Word of God in silence, and, when he is answered it is not so much by a word that bursts into his silence. It is by his silence itself, suddenly, inexplicably revealing itself to him as a word of great power, full of the voice of God. (17)””
About This Quote
Source Book: Thomas Merton, Dialogues With Silence, 1995
True contemplation is about emptying the mind, allowing divine insight to arise spontaneously rather than seeking specific outcomes.
In simple terms: Silence invites unexpected, powerful insight.
Key Takeaway
Practice quiet listening without expectations.
Themes
contemplation
silence
spirituality
Mood
calm
inquisitive
Type
spiritual
philosophical
When to use this quote
- meditation
- prayer
- creative work
- grief processing
Key Concepts
mysticism
inner transformation
Questions to Reflect On
- What does silence reveal for you?
- How can you stay open to unexpected guidance?
A Different Perspective
It may be difficult for those seeking concrete answers.
