SELF-EXPRESSION
Can there be thought without words? Without entering into a field of
discussion that has created volumes of reading material, let us say that it is
difficult for us "to think of thought without words."
Our Fellowcraft degree teaches in terms of symbolism the value not only of
communicating thought, but of adorning thought by means of rhetoric. But does it
refer to speech alone?
In every act of life, spoken or not spoken, we communicate ourselves. We are
part of all about us. We create favorable or unfavorable response by our
manners, or lack or manners. We reveal ourselves by a smile, or handshake,
frown, or shrug of the shoulder. Our eyes tell of hate and anger, love and
kindness. The glance between husband and wife is a perfect sign of secrecy which
the world cannot grasp.
The look of hopelessness on the face of a child, the innocent victim of war,
oppression and hunger, can move us to charity as no words can do.
In times of death or sickness the expression of sympathy and understanding on
the part of a friend and brother is readily communicated and understood.
The brother who cannot utter a profound prayer can touch the heart of another
by his attitude of reverence.
Speech is a form of communication. But there are many ways of communicating
ourselves to others. In our acts there is the beauty of silent rhetoric.
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