Childhoodtake2!

Every Friday we unite for five minutes. Only five minutes, that's all we get, that's all we have. And then, right where we are, no edits or second-thoughts, we publish those words. This week, we write on speak.
Go.

For years and years and years
when faced with someone I viewed as an authority, I struggled to find my voice.
I even struggled to find the right words
even though I know the right thing should be said, I struggled to find what that was.
I struggled to speak up for me, always advocating for others.
Finding it easier to speak up for those that did not have a voice
even though I found myself unable to find my own,
I struggled to speak.

It's the reason I won't allow their voice to be taken from them.
It's the reason I won't allow them to be seen but not heard.
It's the reason I want to hear their explanation, I ask them to find the words.
It's the reason I advocate for them to speak up.

Because we set their bar.
We set the standard of what is appropriate and when to say something and how to say it.
We are their only chance at saying something inappropriately and finding a better way to have said it.
We won't write them off, we won't fire them, we won't kick them out of a classroom,
we can give them as many second chances until they get it right.
Because to speak is not to be disrespectful.
To speak is not crossing a line.
It's finding your strength and courage to stand up.
For you and others.

My dear children, when you see people being mistreated
speak.
When you feel mistreated
speak.
When something in your bones feels wrong
speak.
When you are asked to do something you don't want to
speak.
When you are asked to stay quiet and it enrages you
speak.
When you make a mistake
speak.
When you feel wronged
speak.
When you need a do over
speak.
When you are sorry
speak.
When you are full of fear
speak.
When you need someone
speak.
When you see someone struggling to find their voice help them to
speak.
When you see something beautiful
speak.
When you find love
speak.

But also know this, part of the beauty in relationships is also listening.
When someone is facing a challenge
listen.
When they are verbalizing a fear
listen.
When they need to be heard
listen.

All too often, adults find a way to stay more and more quiet.
There is so much we just do not talk about.
Out of fear of being the only one experiencing it.
Out of concern of what others will think.
Out of not being liked.
Me, I am still finding my way
I am still finding my line
but age and maturity have allowed me to find a better balance.
A voice but the ability to hear a need on the other side.

Your voice, your words, they hold power.
They have a force.
They show the world who you are.
Use them carefully and with intention.
Take a breath, pause, remember that they carry strength.
Use your heart and your intellect
to speak.

Stop.