While raking and bagging mountains of dead leaves from the perimeter of the grounds I realized I had lied. I had lied to Mother Superior when I told her it was understandable that she felt burdened by her responsibilities. In fact, I thought, the other members of the order contributed daily to the upkeep and running of the convent. Pictures and words to study were offered with humility. Praises were sung. Why was Mother Superior feeling particularly vexed? Was she having a crisis of faith? Perhaps it was the routine of life that weighed on her. Perhaps the relentless chatter of the nuns day in and day out grated on her nerves. That was it, I decided: we must bring to our order one week of silence per month. One week per month, maybe two, would refresh her spirits.