I travel up to my office using the same elevator bank every day.  This morning a sign in the elevator caught my attention.  “Speak when illuminated”

The reference was to the elevator call box.  It is a one way system and the light indicates when your mic is live.  Still, the instruction  got me thinking philosophically.

Illuminate

One definition of illuminate is to enlighten, as with knowledge.  Or to throw light on a subject. So adding “only” to the phrase creates a thought provoker.

“Only, speak when illuminated”  This could be interpreted as an instruction to hold your counsel unless you had some item of knowledge or clarity to share.

Wisdom in timing

Usually the prime objective of sharing information with others is to create the opportunity for development of knowledge.  A key to achieving this goal is the others receptivity so timing is really important.

Although the syntax of the phrase is not exactly right, the sentiment is.  That is, don’t try to illuminate others till you are ready yourself. When the context for sharing is properly staged, receptivity is more likely.

When you are clear, that is fully illuminated yourself, the time to talk has arrived, but not before.  Most importantly, when you are clear yourself the time to enlighten others has arrived.

If you are not ready, the chances of sharing your personal enlightenment are not good.

So by happenstance, I came across and interesting thought, “Only speak when illuminated”