Viktor E. Frankl a psychologist who survived the Holocaust is famous for this profound statement: “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” There are so many things in this world that trigger, provoke and arouse our emotions to respond. It could be a beautiful sunset. It could be the daily encounters with people, social media posts, the daily news cycle not to mention how we respond to personal joys, struggles and illnesses. So the space between what kindles and arouses us and our response does exist. This space of time can be long days or months or only a few seconds. But whatever we choose to do in this space can make all the difference in our world. It’s long been held as a remedy when under stress or duress to count to ten before you respond. And there is some truth in that old adage. It’s amazing what happens when we take an intentional pause, a timeout to step back and reflect and discern what is happening. Our minds are so amazing, we can process so much information in a few seconds. But sometimes when things get confusing or overwhelming, God calls us to take a longer break, create a wider space so we can re-center ourselves, reflect and listen to that still small voice. God is speaking to us in every moment but much of the time we are having an inner dialogue with ourselves, chattering away which drowns out the very voice of God. Our responses to people and situations matter. And the consequences are many. Sometimes we speak before we have truly listened to what a person is saying. Sometimes in our listening , without knowing it, we get fused and project are own feelings and experiences into the conversation. Sometimes we misread people and over react. Words and actions can take on a power all their own and once you put yourself out there it’s hard to retract your response. Silence is a powerful language. And I am not sure how much it is utilized. The Psalmist says, “Be still and know that I am God” (Ps 46:10). Be still and listen to the unforced rhythms of God’s grace at work. Be still and listen to the voice of forgiveness and mercy. There is a silence and stillness that should overtake us all in the presence of God who is so overwhelmingly holy and glorious. Remember, when you feel like you are in a tight place, feeling pressured, when the situation wants to overpower you—take an intentional pause. The space between the stimulus and your response has the power to inspire, encourage and bring healing to both you and the people around you. May God continue to bless the space between us and guide our responses that they may bear good fruit.