This quote advocates for the importance of maintaining a positive and constructive atmosphere in social interactions. It suggests that if an individual cannot contribute positively to a conversation or situation, it's better to remain silent rather than spreading negativity.
Being positive doesn't necessarily mean being overly cheerful at all times; it can also involve refraining from criticizing, complaining, or engaging in harmful gossip. Silence, in this context, is seen as a way to avoid adding to the negativity in a situation.
In essence, this quote encourages mindful communication. It reminds us that our words and attitudes can have a significant impact on the people around us, so it's important to consider the tone and content of our speech. If we can't contribute positively, it's often wiser to choose silence over potentially harmful or unhelpful words.