When we are misunderstood and judged unfavorably, what good does it do to defend ourselves and explain our actions? Let us ignore it, let us say nothing – it is indeed good to say nothing, to let ourselves be judged calmly! In the holy gospel, we do not see Saint Mary Magdalene explaining anything when her sister accused her of sitting at Jesus' feet and doing nothing! She did not say: "Oh Martha, if only you knew what happiness I am experiencing, if you could hear the words that I hear!" Or even: "Jesus just told me to stay here." No, she preferred silence. Oh, blessed silence, which gives the soul so much peace!
(Therese of Lisieux, last conversations, April 6, 1897)
