Silence (or Guidelines for the Perfect Wife)

Her silence means yes

but her silence can also mean no.

That’s okay.

Before, 

her silence is acceptance.

After,

her silence is usually

bland and uncomplaining.

When he accuses,

her silence is contrition.

When he bullies,

her silence is resentment.

When he begs, 

her silence is dominance.

When he boasts,

her silence is tolerance.

When he argues,

her silence is rebuttal.

When he praises,

her silence is complacence.

When he lies,

her silence is disapproval

Or sometimes conspiracy.

When he falls,

her silence is empathy

Or sometimes scorn.

When she suspects him,

Her silence is cynicism.

When he’s upset, 

her silence is comfort.

When he’s neglectful,

her silence is reproach.

When he’s unreasonable,

her silence is restraint.

When he takes charge,

her silence is benign.

When he’s loving,

her silence is gratitude.

When he’s happy,

her silence is peace.

When he’s sad,

her silence is compassion.

When he’s angry, 

her silence is fear.

When he batters,

her silence is a prayer.

When he’s silent, 

her silence is respect.

When he speaks, 

her silence 

is sufficient.