Monastery Of Silence

Sister Mary Catherine entered the Monastery of Silence. The Priest said, 'Sister, this is a silent monastery. You are welcome here as long as you like, but you may not speak until directed to do so.' Sister Mary Catherine lived in the monastery for 5 years before the Priest said to her, 'Sister Mary Catherine, you have been here for 5 years. You may speak two words.'

Sister Mary Catherine said, 'Hard bed.'

'I'm sorry to hear that,' the Priest said, 'We will get you a better bed.'

After another 5 years, Sister Mary Catherine was summoned by the Priest. 'You may say another two words, Sister Mary Catherine.'

'Cold food,' said Sister Mary Catherine, and the Priest assured her that the food would be better in the future.

On her 15th anniversary at the monastery, the Priest again called Sister Mary Catherine in to his office. 'You may say two words today.'

'I quit,' said Sister Mary Catherine.

'It's probably best,' said the Priest,'You've done nothing but complain since you got here.'