Renters across the street had a noisy weekend.  Their trash barrel is overflowing with empty beer cases and liquor bottles.  I heard singing and shouting until late at night, loud voices moving in the darkness, landing with a thud on my bed.  I try not to resent their noise, reminding myself they’re probably young and feel the need to shout.  And yet I can’t help but think of silence and its beauty.  I know that silence between people can sometimes be cold and hate-filled, but silence between friends is beautiful, the sharing of unspoken thoughts proof of closeness and love.  I revel in silence.  Forgive me, Father, when I talk too much at you and fail to listen and lie silent.  Help me hear more of your voice and less of my own. Amen.