Growing up, my favorite author was Dr. Maya Angelou. Her book I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings captivated me, and I admired her for using her voice to shine a light on the injustices of the world. I remember thinking to myself that one day, I would grow up to be a writer, using my own voice to address both the great and small injustices against humanity.
But as life moved on, that zeal I once had for life began to wane. Choices and circumstances pulled me further and further away from nurturing that gift of writing. I let other things overshadow my passion, and slowly, that determined writer inside me started to fade away.
This suppression, I later discovered, manifested itself in every aspect of my life. When I did muster the courage to speak up, I found myself curving the conversation, tiptoeing around issues to avoid offending or challenging those around me. It became a disservice not only to myself but to the authenticity of my relationships and interactions.
It wasn’t until life’s challenges became too heavy to bear in silence that I found myself turning back to my first love—writing. In the midst of pain and anguish, I began to write to release my emotions, rediscovering that deep-seated desire to call attention to the hearts of humanity. Now, I’m thrilled to share my voice with all of you once more.
The realization hit me hard: I had internalized the belief that my voice didn't matter, that speaking up meant inviting conflict or rejection. Consequently, I only expressed myself in negative or defensive ways, further reinforcing the cycle of silence and misunderstanding
As time passed, I saw how this pattern seeped into my spiritual practice. The pain of being silenced led me to approach the universe with prayers tainted by fear, anxiety, and doubt. I repeated my petitions endlessly, convinced that my voice wasn't being heard, that my desires were somehow unworthy.
But through introspection and self-discovery, I came to a profound understanding. I realized that I am entitled to speak my truth, that my voice carries weight and significance. Instead of shrinking away from difficult conversations or muting my desires, I learned to express myself with respect and authenticity.
In embracing my voice, I found liberation. I
understood that my prayers, my intentions, could only manifest when rooted in love and confidence. I let go of the fear of rejection and embraced the belief that I am worthy of all that I envision for myself.
I share this journey not as a declaration of triumph but as a reminder to myself and others. We are all voices in this world, each deserving of recognition and respect. Let us speak our truths with courage and compassion, knowing that our words have the power to shape our reality.
I encourage you to embrace your passions with the same fervor. Walk barefoot in the rain, hike that trail, or start that innovative business that the Divine Creator has placed in your heart. Let your greatest voice sing its greatest song and trust that all your melodies will be heard.
I am learning that no longer will I silence my voice for the sake of other things. I am singing now—loudly.
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