During the middle ages, a young man was preparing to take his vows as a monk with an order that observed a very strict code of silence. The abbot questioned the man, asking him, "Are you sure that you are willing to devote your life to silent contemplation and prayer. Once you take these vows, you will only be allowed to speak two words every ten years. Is that truly your wish?" The man assured the abbot that it was, and so the vows were administered.
Ten years passed, and the abbot called the monk to his office and said, "Brother Michael, you have been here 10 years. Is there anything you wish to say?" Brother Michael responded, "Bad light". The abbot nodded and said, "I shall increase your supply of candles. Return now to your room, and resume your prayers."
Ten more years passed, and once again the monk was summoned. The abbot said, "Ten more years have passed. Do you wish to say anything, Brother Michael?" The monk responded, "Too cold". The abbot said, "I will get you some heavier blankets. Return now to your room, and resume your prayers."
Ten more years passed, and the abbot, now an old man, once more called Brother Michael. "Another decade has passed. Do you wish to speak?" Brother Michael said, "Bad food." The abbot responded. "Brother Michael, I don't think you belong here. You've been here thirty years and all you have done is complain."
