#Discretion

The Quiet Power of Reserved Wisdom

At first glance, Shakespeare’s line praises restraint: speak with care, and let your words carry only what is necessary. “Talk less than you know” suggests that wisdom is not proven by constant display, but by the abilit...

The Polite Power of Strategic Vagueness

Judith Martin’s line, delivered with her signature dry wit, offers a pragmatic alternative to cruelty: if genuine kindness is out of reach, at least avoid precision that wounds. The humor works because it points to a rea...

The Lasting Impact of Words Over Actions

This Zuni proverb weighs the consequences of physical mistakes against those made through speech. While tripping over one’s feet may cause embarrassment or minor injury, the proverb warns us that verbal missteps can have...

The Virtue of Knowing When to Remain Silent

George Eliot’s observation highlights a subtle but powerful aspect of wisdom: the ability to recognize when one has nothing meaningful to contribute and, more importantly, to choose silence over unnecessary verbosity. In...

The Heart of a Fool Is in His Mouth, but the Mouth of a Wise Man Is in His Heart – Benjamin Franklin

This quote highlights the impulsive nature of foolish individuals who speak without thinking, letting emotions drive their words. In contrast, wise individuals think deeply before they speak, ensuring their words are mea...