Obsolete

   
     Our bodies grow old, but our thoughts should stay up-to-date.  This may require an open and inquisitive mind that can delete the out-of-date and refresh beliefs and opinions.  Many people want to cling to the ideas of their parents and ancestors.  New ideas seem to interfere with age-old concepts.  Scientific evidence can collide with past notions.
     Some ideas from the past are still valid, but many are faulty and obsolete.  We need to clean out our closets, keep what is essential and toss out the rest.   Some items may have historical and sentimental value, but some things are just worn out and need to go.  Easier to clean a closet than a mind.
     Just because something is new doesn't make it true or false, helpful or trivial.  The same goes for something old.  Allow your mind to go forward, grow, and improve.  Don't become obsolete.

Speak Up

   
     When you can make a difference, when the time is right, when you might regret it if you don't say something, speak up.  Be courageous, yet courteous; have good intentions, but be prepared for criticism.  Show others that you welcome their contributions and encourage them to speak up.
     Value your own opinions and the opinions of others.   If you want to influence others, be willing to let them influence you or at least, make you think.  Listen, speak, then listen again.  Add to the dialog with respect.  Insults and name calling are counterproductive.
     We see instances of poor communication every day.  People who are overconfident in their  own opinions cause more division instead of possible compromise.  Thoughtless and hateful remarks are akin to bullying, intimidating others to acquiesce.  Freedom of speech should encourage communication and help clarify the truth.
     Compliment or critique, encourage or caution, support or correct, defend or oppose.  Decide when it is best to speak up.
 

Keep Quiet

   
     Or the less politically correct - Shut Up!  Saying this to yourself is an attempt to restrain from making remarks that may be counterproductive, misunderstood, or hurtful, but sometimes frustration and anger are hard to contain.  Trying to silence someone else can also reflect your own frustration and anger.
     Sometimes, we just need to release our feelings and opinions and share our thoughts, free speech and all that, but be aware of the possible consequences.  Sometimes your ideas are not welcomed, are considered none of your business, and believed to be overstepping.  Parents of adult children often have to hold their tongue out of respect.  Friendships need to be protected, so we should take care that remarks are not insulting.
     Many people don't want their opinions questioned or are only interested in opinions agreeing with their own.  In the past, we were told never to discuss religion or politics in polite company, for obvious reasons.   Better to just have a pleasant evening.  Weigh the risks of opening up your mouth or writing down your thoughts.
     When you feel like telling someone else to "keep quiet," try to understand the reasons behind their remarks.  Don't stop communication, but try to present your own objections in a civilized tone, and explain your own opinions.
   Quieting yourself or expecting others to be quiet may help keep the peace, but the price of silence may be too high.  Decide when it is best to keep quiet.