The Wisdom of Silence

One day, as Socrates walked through the city, a man hurried up to him and said,

“Sir, have you heard what people are saying about your friend?” Socrates gently

raised his hand and replied, “Before you tell me, let me ask you three

questions.” The man agreed. Socrates began, “First, are you certain

that what you’re about to say is true?” The man hesitated and admitted, “I only heard it

from someone else. I’m not sure if it’s true.” Socrates nodded and continued. “Second,

is what you want to tell me something positive?” The man looked down and answered,

“No, it isn’t.” Socrates then asked the last question: “Will this information