Thank you so much for this thoughtful comment.

I never would have thought myself so interested in silence--but having family and work and community responsibilities has left me very hungry for a void space where nobody is contacting me and I don't have to contact anyone else.

Your description of meetings sometimes sounding more like social media commentary back and forth was right on for the meeting I went to, although I do believe the participants were sincere in their sharing.

Currently I can't get away for any fully silent retreats, but I am trying to be more mindful on a daily basis and finding quiet moments when I can try to relax into time and the space around me, without feeling anxiety.

Thank you for your kind hope--I hope we all find what we are looking for. You too!