Abstract: The present invention provides for a reactive silicone emulsion composition for softening tissue paper and other cellulosics comprising the reaction product of: a) a silanol fluid; b) an amino-alkoxy silane; c) a silane cross linker; d) a cationic emulsifier; e) a nonionic surfactant f) a Bronsted base and g) water wherein cellulosics softened with said composition undergoes no significant reduction in tensile strength. The invention further provides for a method of softening cellulosics and cellulosics softened with the compositions of the present invention.