While working for the radio industry as a disc jockey, I was trained to avoid dead air in my work. Pushing buttons, speaking, starting programs on time was very important. Timing, down to the second, in every hour was accounted for. Two seconds of “nothing” on the radio seemed an eternity, and was often cause for unemployment if done repeatedly.

In recovery, I find my sensitivity toward dead air is extreme. I can’t stand it when a meeting goes silent; I must do something, and do it fast—talk! It’s as if a fire needs to be extinguished. I must use the water of my words to put it out.

I find that observing old-timers in the program helps me see it’s possible to have serenity in silence. They seem to have journeyed over the abyss to the other side, and experience comfort in silence.

God, grant me the understanding and wisdom that comes with appreciating the silent moments in my life. Let not my heart be troubled with filling every moment with noise. Let me hear your voice.