What might change if I paused before reacting to a situation?

So here’s the deal. Growing up as a good Christian girl in the south in the late 50’s, 60’s and early 70’s, the youngest of 3 sisters, one of whom was always very vocal and usually got in trouble for it, I learned to keep my mouth shut, and to keep out of sight as much as possible – to not react to anything I felt, saw, or heard. It has taken a lot of years for me to even feel my feelings, and learn that I have a voice to express those feelings, whether for myself or others. Once that box was opened, though it was like Pandora’s. It was almost out of control. Speaking before thinking; acting before processing. Now in my 60’s I am still only learning how to pause. It is not easy, when you are determined to never be silenced again. But experience tells me – it’s all about the pause.