"In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends."

This is one of Martin Luther King Jr.'s most famous quotes and recently I've started to ponder on it. For to some words are just words that mean what they mean. However, to others it can often take on a deeper meaning.
*TANGENT*
Another common phrase we learned as children was also sticks and stones may break our bones, but words will never hurt me. This was often quoted whenever people (most likely children) used harsh words against each other to keep one from feeling down. But as we grew older we learned that yes, words can really hurt.... but words can crush the soul. was another version that I later heard.
Ironically, it seems that those who are capable of hurting you the most are the ones capable of loving you the most; when someone you don't know tries to hurt you you aren't really hurt as you don't take them very seriously. However, when someone you love/care about deeply/have known for a long time/actually listen to acts like that you can seem confused, then hurt. It is my belief that the deepest scars will never show themselves on your body.
*end tangent*
Going back to the quote by MLKJ, the tangent kinda commented on the first part of the quote, but it's the second part of the quote that, for me, has the most significance, as it may for others as it might have meant to be.
In many times, silence can be a good thing; other times it can be a bad thing. But when it comes from friends, any actions they take will always be remembered. But what about their silence? What makes it significant? Perhaps maybe their input on whatever you're doing (or lack thereof)?. Silence can be interpreted in many ways. Could it be the absence of approval, or the absence of disapproval. Sometimes encouragement is needed between friends; sometimes discouragements is needed. When all is said and done, does one look back and try to determine where the dividing lines are and how bold they are? Do they change that often?
The power of silence is such that it can often show someone's true feelings about something, or hide them just the same. In a conversation I believe it is important not only to pay attention to what is said, but take note of what is not said and note why (or wonder at least) . For the world is a universe of politics; not just between countries, it's everywhere. And in the end, everyone who cares for you will want to know where you stand as you may want to know where everyone you care about stands...ok that may have sounded aggressive and may not be true for some of you but it's just a theory.
In any case, silence can often speak louder than actions or words and can often be misused.