The Power of Your Voice

High school has taught me that my voice is powerful. My voice has improved my life. Its shaped the lives of others. With my voice, I’ve made a difference & helped drive change throughout the district. My voice has brought joy and inspiration to some; awareness to others.

Sadly for most of my high school career, that voice was silent.

I have anxiety. For the longest time, I let anxiety consume aspects of my life. Arguably the most important thing that anxiety took from me was my voice. I gave into my anxiety on a daily basis. I was often the shy girl that sat in the corner of a room to avoid social interaction. As weird as it sounds, I sat in the back because I was afraid to talk. I was afraid of sharing my opinion, stories, and knowledge to other people. I was afraid everything I could say  would be incorrect, how embarrassing would that be?

About a year ago, I learned that those thoughts were unhealthy. I know, I know! How does one not understand that those aren’t healthy thoughts? I assumed that these thoughts crossed everyone’s mind as often as they did mine. I discovered that those thoughts have a name, anxiety. I realized that they are unhealthy. With that knowledge, I strived for improvement. I learned that I can’t control what I think, but I can control how I react. I determined that I’ll probably  always be the shy girl, but I’m never again going to be the silent girl.

My senior advice to every quiet underclassmen, is to find & use your voice. Your voice is important, use it. What you have to say is important, say it. You too may change the life of someone around you. If nothing else, using your voice WILL change your life for the better.

If using your voice is scary, start small. Give input on a group project, share your opinion in a political debate, partake in class discussion. Just say something. After practicing a few times, branch out & share your opinions. Try reassuring someone. Let them know they’re not alone and that others have a similar opinion.

As you grow more confident, try  giving another perspective to someone you disagree with. Help other people see the world through different eyes.  That, my friend, is how you make a real difference.

Your voice is one of the  most powerful tools you have. Take advantage of it. Don’t waste it. Create a better tomorrow, by using your voice today