Her silence suggests that there is something she feels she cannot tell them or she is strong.
Answer:
If George was so fed-up of Lennie, he would have got many chances to leave her. However, he is not actually mad at Lennie and supports her even when she displays child-like behavior. He was just tired and thus he yelled over Lennie to bring out his frustration.
Explanation:
In the first chapter of "Of Mice and Men" by John Steinbeck, the complicated but strong relationship of George and Lennie was explained. Lennie was very much dependent upon George due to her childish nature. George yells at Lennie for her stupid acts and dreams of a Life where he is free of responsibilities. However, this is a natural thought of every person who has to look after another people 24/7.
The important thing is this relationship of George and Lennie is their strong friendship which stand through test of time. As the story ensues, George came to know the sanctity of his friendship with Lennie as their bond is a blessing in this lonely world. Therefore, George never thought to get rid of Lennie as she is always there for him in dark times.
A speech topic that would be appropriate for a group of retirees would be, to me, to explain that once retired from one's main employer life and one's aspirations and drive do not end there. For example, it is still possible to earn money but less strenuously and rigid than punching a clock by, for example doing freelance work on the internet. Also, now that there is more time, one can pursue his/her real interests of say, writing a book, becoming an artist or supporting progressive politics, for example.
