There had to be something in watching people debate that drew me all in, all the time. I wasn't sure at the time. But until I figured it out, it remained a sweet sensational mystery. Audacity. Yes. People's audacity. That should be it.
I had watched Faith in awe as she fearlessly expressed her thought-provoking proposition on what I tagged a controversial topic. How she unapologetically contested and challenged existing stereotypes as she always did in school, awed me.
This could never be me, I said under my breath. But right after her submission, I strolled through memory lane and remembered how often I had rehearsed a lot of lines that never got out, and the many lines of thought that couldn't make it out of my white pages.
Then it hit me, that my views and thoughts matter too and the expressions of my “voice” can be heard and make a difference, and as I stood up from that place, I laid down my fears there. It's a truism that everyone has their own unique perspective and experiences. By sharing your voice and speaking up, you have the opportunity to contribute your ideas, perspectives, and opinions to meaningful discussions and conversations.
In contrast to the girl who sat to listen to Faith, I have realized that contradictory views and thoughts are actually features of individualism and have since learnt to play by the rule of respecting that of others while putting out mine. My voice is a powerful tool and I have consciously decided to implore it in making differences starting right where I am.
So, next time you have something valuable to say, don't fret, let your thoughts out. You have a voice, use it!
Written By
Ogechukwu Nwachi
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