I was not suggesting that everyone should retreat into hermetic silence, Eliza....just that, for any one person, silence is sometimes the best response (depending on the situation). It's sometimes better to remain silent than to add more fuel to the fire.

At other times, to speak out is the best response...and to genuinely communicate is definitely a good thing.

You're right that we cannot ask for total understanding from others nor necessarily expect it...but we can attempt to give it.