YOUR VOICE MATTERS
I have foolishly believed a lot of lies about myself. About who I am and who I'm "allowed" to be and who I think I'm supposed to be. As a kid, I was unapologetically loud and a natural leader (some might say silly words like bossy or obnoxious). And for many reasons, I learned that not everyone is comfortable around people who are vocal. So, I trained myself to be quiet. In many ways, this self regulations is important. But in other ways, it taught me to stifle my opinions, self-expression & ability to share the Truth with others. It taught me to care a great deal about what others think of me.
I told myself often...
"I don't have a voice"
"I don't have anything important to say"
"People won't like me if I have an opinion"
"People don't want what I have to offer"
I was entirely convinced that if I was my true self in public that I would be rejected. I would make myself look small so that I don't make others feel uncomfortable. I believe in the importance of humility and treating others as better than yourself 100%, but I don't think God intended for me to go into hiding to accomplish it.
For those of you who really know me, you've heard me singing mindlessly to myself - or maybe to you. You've heard me speak on a stage with bold confidence. You've seen me leading worship with the joy that comes right from my soul. You've listened as I give advice and share my thoughts and values, usually deeply rooted in scripture. So why do I feel like I don't have a voice? When using my voice gives me SO MUCH JOY? It's a contradiction I've been wrestling with trying to understand.
I learned recently that there isn't actually anyone telling me to be quiet anymore. I'm stifling myself. I keep myself small because it's more comfortable here. It's less scary to only let a few people see the real me. There's no fear of rejection when you don't put anything out there! Because, rejection and resistance will happen when you use your voice more.
But I've learned this year something pretty big for me. Starting in Septmeber of this year, I remembered who I am in my natural, comfortable state. I remembered that my default, when I'm operating as my true self, is someone who uses their voice all the time. I sing praise to God in Church or in my kitchen at the top of my lungs and it fills my heart up like nothing else does. I love public speaking and teaching and feel fulfilled when I create opportunities to do so. I have a voice. I have something to say. I have a small platform and an important message to share with the world.
And so do you.
Your voice matters. The world needs what you have to offer. God has made you with your own unique gifts and there's a way to use them like only you can!
Women. You do not need approval or validation from other women to be yourself. you don't need permission from a man to speak up. You don't need to fear judgement for being yourself.
Please, do us all a favour, and SHINE. Use your voice! Get LOUD (not for the sake of being loud, but for people who need you to use your voice for them! To stand up for people and causes that matter). Share love, truth & kindness. Be yourself. Help others do the same. You have more power and influence than you think. It's time.
