Those who neglect silence bring only a distracted heart and a preoccupied mind to their prayer and, instead of deriving new strength from it, they only offer God a heart full of trifles. Intimate conversation with God is easily stifled if you do not first put an end to exterior chatter; yet, if you love silence and keep it well, your heart will be a temple where God will dwell and become known to you there.
I was taught that I had to 'master' subjects. But who can 'master' beauty, or peace, or joy?
~ Kathleen Norris in THE PSALMS WITH COMMENTARY