Still Water Runs Deep – Part II

Author: Sir Godfrey Gregg

There is a quiet strength that the world often overlooks. The saying “Still water runs deep” reminds us that the truest depth is often hidden beneath a calm exterior. In both African and Caribbean wisdom, silence and patience are not signs of weakness, but rather marks of maturity, discipline, and understanding.

An African proverb declares, “Wisdom is like a baobab tree; no one individual can embrace it.” This reminds us that wisdom is vast and enduring, much like deep waters whose extent cannot be measured at first glance. Similarly, in the Caribbean, we often say, “Dog that bark too much can’t bite.” The meaning is simple—noise and show usually mask emptiness, but quiet strength is both sharp and enduring.

In our daily lives, this truth is evident. The grandmother who listens more than she speaks, yet when she opens her mouth, her words carry the weight of generations. The farmer who labours quietly on his land, without boasting, yet feeds the entire household with his harvest. The young woman who holds her peace amidst gossip and distraction, yet proves her worth through dignity and consistency. Their depth speaks louder than any noise ever could.

Life requires us to become like those still waters. Loud tempers, boastful spirits, and restless tongues may win momentary applause, but they soon evaporate like dew under the sun. Depth, however, endures. In the Caribbean, we also say, “One one cocoa full basket.” Steadiness, patience, and small, consistent efforts accumulate into greatness. The still waters run deep because they have gathered strength over time; they are not rushing like torrents that destroy, but enduring like rivers that give life.

Scripture teaches, “Be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” (James 1:19). This is the heart of the matter. The deep soul does not rush into quarrel or performance but waits, watches, and acts at the appointed time with precision.

My counsel is this: value quietness, not as emptiness, but as power under control. Let your presence bring peace instead of disturbance, and let your depth strengthen others instead of seeking praise. In being still, you reveal your depth.