Of Silence, Toleration and Kindness

Kalil Gibran is a Lebanese poet , philosopher and painter. His book ‘The prophet’ was my first introduction to this mystic genius. I fell in love with his works right away. ‘The prophet’ was given to me as a gift by brother for my 16th birthday. I have not fallen out of love though there are a few of his ideas I may not agree to but he is my favorite author/poet any day.

We usually complain about people who talk nonstop ( I do I cannot stand those who can’t keep a moments silence)  or about those with no  patience or lack kindness, but it is in those interactions we understand the true value of silence , patience and tolerance. But as the poet says we are never grateful to such people who have taught us such valuable lessons in life. However if we truly understand the value of silence we would know when not to say anything, we would be tolerant of everyone’s views though we may not subscribe to them and we would be kind to everyone regardless of who they are.

Most of his philosophy sounds very Christian in nature due to his mother being a Christian. Yet his depth of understanding of human nature and his philosophy of life  never fails to strike people who love the truth , poetry and believe in humanity.

His Eastern way of writing fascinates me, it deeply moves me when I read his works.