"The experience of silence is now so rare that we must cultivate it and treasure it. This is especially true for shared silence.

"To come together in silence — even just a very few people — creates a field of consciousness, an awareness force. This power helps us to see our lives more truly. Each of us can make a tremendous difference simply through our intent and constancy.

"In this way sharing silence is, in fact, a political act. When we can stand aside from the usual and perceive the fundamental, change begins to happen. Our lives align with deeper values and the lives of others are touched and influenced.

"We can ask others to practice with us. Together we can grow and make a difference. Sharing silence with others is a profound act of trust, love, and courtesy. It is a mutual gift, a necessity, a helping hand, a path, and a discipline.”