Don't Be Afraid To Speak Out

Unfortunately, I have come across the problem of not speaking my mind when I have had every reason to. It wasn't about being shy or worried about what I had to say, but about hurting other peoples feelings and their opinions about me. For a long time I had always worried about what others would say if I stood out of the norm and defended something. Good arguments and points always came to my head, but I let nothing be heard. It wasn't until I became a leader in my youth group did I realize the importance of stating an opinion and letting myself be heard. Now whenever I am given the opportunity I share my thoughts and ideas with others. No longer do I shy away from hot political topics and issues. It is better to let yourself be heard no matter what words come out of your mouth. "When we shrink from the world, our souls shrink too." This quote is a perfect example of what does happen when we choose to remain quiet. Our opinions are never voiced and our concerns will never be dealt with. It also does not give us room as people to grow.

Another quote I found appropriate was said by the trappist monk Thomas Merton, "Souls are like athletes that need opponents worthy of them if they are to be tried and pushed to the full use of their powers." If we do not communicate what we are feeling inside it can have a devistating effect on ourselves. Keeping our opinions priviate helps no one else, we should be proud of our stance and share it with others. The quote gives a good simile as it compares the soul to an athelte. We need to be sure we are like the athlete and challenge those around us. By doing this it can only make us stronger. When we take a side in a heated public issue, we are doing our nation a favor. Only debate and conversation can make a good idea a great idea. If everyone claimed they had the same opinion, millions would live with dissatisfaction. All of this would be because no one chose to speak out. We should continue to grow and share our opinions with others.