Meriting the Hidden Light

The Chofetz Chaim zt”l once asked a well-known Rov to speak at a certain gathering about a specific topic. Afterwards, the Rov told the Chofetz Chaim, “I did as you requested. I spoke for two hours and the bais knesses was full. But I still feel that my words did not create an impact and that my speech had no positive effect.”

The Chofetz Chaim emotionally replied, “You certainly know that the Vilna Gaon zt”l said that every second that a person keeps his mouth closed, he merits a great hidden light. You just succeeded in keeping a room full of people from talking for two hours. Don’t you think that it is an accomplishment?”