RIGHT SPEECH
Refraining from Frivolous Speech
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Frivolous speech is
unhealthy. Refraining from frivolous speech is healthy. (MN 9)
Abandoning frivolous speech, one refrains from frivolous speech. One
speaks at the right time, speaks only what is fact, and speaks about
what is good. One speaks what is worthy of being overheard, words that
are reasonable, moderate, and beneficial. (DN 1) One practices thus:
“Others may speak frivolously, but I shall abstain from frivolous
speech.” (MN 8)
An authentic person is one who, even when asked, does not reveal their
own praiseworthy qualities—still less so when not asked. When asked,
however, and obliged to reply to questions, one speaks of their own
praiseworthy qualities hesitatingly and not in detail. (AN 4.73)
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This passage
describes a situation of humility, not dissembling. It is right speech
because it does not unnecessarily embellish your own story by
exaggerating your good qualities, which can be considered a form of
frivolous or unnecessary speech. Notice that it is still important to
tell the truth, so if asked directly it is okay to be accurate in noting
your own virtues, as long as you do it with an attitude of humility.
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Pay attention
to the speech patterns of the people you encounter and notice just how
much of what they say involves praising themselves either overtly or
indirectly. It is remarkable how much of our speech is given to this
project. Now turn your gaze on your own words and see to what degree you
are doing this yourself. Try removing self-praise from your language
for a while and see how difficult it is to do.
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Tomorrow: Reflecting upon Social Action
One week from today: Refraining from False Speech
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