Despite panic about commitments requiring a voice in the week ahead (“Hello, Ego”) the forced silence was a gift. When we don’t speak the language in a foreign country the experience is similar. No one understands our gibberish. Instead we find ways to communicate without words.

How might we speak without a voice? Consider the following Five Alternative Skills:
- Well Wishes:
Even if you don’t know the words it’s always possible to wish other humans well.
For example, while waiting at the hotel check-in, send the staff gratitude through your thoughts: “ I wish him/her well. I’m grateful for this person. Wishing this person and his family and community well etc…”
Just wishing others well “on the inside” changes your demeanor on the outside, great for connecting with strangers.
2. If in a Stressful Situation, Stand Quietly in Gratitude.
In line waiting to board a plane? Stuck in a crowded entrance for the movies? Remind yourself about life’s big and small gifts. Yes, right there in the middle of the chaos. Breathe in the gratitude and breathe out what you can let go. No need to express dissatisfaction with the entrance process.

3. Travel With a Slow Agenda.
When you drop the Must Do’s and slow down, fully being where you are, choosing one activity becomes enough if not too much! You’re able to listen more to your heart! Your travel experience becomes more full-bodied like a delicious red wine the less you do and say. Notice with your senses.
4. Instead of Speaking, Listen. Look around. Feel what you’re feeling in your body. Sense the air against your body. Smell the cooking from the kitchen. Ahhh, you’re really “there” without a word spoken!
5. Choose to Speak Less. Filter The Noise.
Returning recently from a retreat in Costa Rica, my words came slowly back into the world. Responding to texts were shorter. Emails were much more truncated, as if there had been so much noise within my communication. With a quieter mind it’s easier to hone in on what matters and let the peripheral and incessant thoughts fall away. What a relief!

“Oh, oh, oh….choose me”, with my hand raised straight into the air. For sure throughout my life I’ve raised my hand wanting to be acknowledged for my smart answer. Look at me, Teacher. Even at this retreat when inspired by the speaker, I noticed how often I wanted to add my commentary. It’s ok. Of course to yearn for stardom!
The best show on earth is the one on the inside. Silence and noticing lead to discernment. Oh, what a relief!