The only way to truly listen is with your mouth closed. Those who seek a life full of wisdom know that the powers from wisdom are provided by the willingness to listen, and not disrupt the learning process with a reply or rebuttal to everything that is presented before them. 

When you speak you are not going to learn more than you already knew before you spoke. When you speak you share a piece of who you already are to the world, and this is definitely useful at times, but speaking should never be a bigger part of your life than listening and seeking to gain understanding. 

Set your heart on wisdom. Dedicate your life to understanding and from this the words you speak will affect the change that this world really needs from you. Remember if you find yourself close to disaster, it is time to be still and listen. Let the rhythms of peace and wisdom guide you into greater situations.