I like to have books for personal growth in my reading rotation. It was an appropriate time for me to read about the benefits of silence and stillness in my mindfulness practice as I embark on a new adventure — retirement.

I benefit immensely from Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings through books, videos, and the Plum Village app. I appreciate that he has many books available that are short, quick reads. Just enough information to help ground my mind and focus on a specific aspect of Buddhism. 

In Silence: The Power of Quiet in a World Full of Noise, Thich Nhat Hanh explains the power of silence by slowing down the mind so that we can recognize the surrounding beauty. He talked about how many people search for happiness; however, they spend their days frantically running from one place to another. Then, when people arrive at their later years in life, they wonder where the time has gone and question how they spent their earlier days. Silence is not about achieving a lack of external noise in our lives; instead, it is cultivating quiet in our minds amid chaos. He offers techniques to remind us to be present in the moment with equanimity in a noisy environment or mind. 

I’m grateful the universe put this book in my hands when it did. I listened to the audiobook the last few days I worked, and it helped me be present as I said farewell to my career, coworkers, and the environment that became my home away from home for many years. My mind was overly active at times, and remembering my mindfulness techniques helped me navigate a bittersweet transition. 

I borrowed the audiobook from my local library with the Libby app. Dan Woren offered a wonderful voice for narration. 

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