Silences places a delicate finger on my lips

I came out of a meeting

Elated.

It went so well! I think.

So many good ideas.

People were really listening to me.

I am brilliant.

Oh.

That feeling of elation is my brain

enamored of the sound of my own voice.

Silence taps me gently on the shoulder.

I turn, sheepish in my misguided self-adoration.

“Bring me with you next time,” she whispers kindly.

“I can help you see the truth in that room.”

My mouth opens, choking on the protest as it exits.

Silences places a delicate finger on my lips and gently shakes her head.

“Take me with you.

Only then will you see the truth.

And they will begin to feel your brilliance.”

Maybe one day I will listen.