I think that sometimes it can be very easy for us to slip into a state of mind where we forget how powerful we are. We often forget that we all have an influence over somebody because we all influence each other and that there is no amount of money or any trade that can be made, to take away your voice or your opinions.
In society, specifically through social media, we see how some people with wealth are portrayed as ‘mattering’ more. Their actions have more of a consequence, the spotlight is brighter, so therefore they must have more power. Therefore their beliefs are the only ones that drastically shape the world because nobody will ever really listen to what a young girl of 19 has a lot to say about climate change or gender inequality.
Yet, here I am — writing these words and sending out this message. And I don’t really care, it doesn’t make a difference to me if there’s only one person reading this, or one hundred. I have days when I look at the world and the mess that we’ve created, as a species, and I wish more than anything that I had the power to change things. But then I have days, like today, when I look around and realize that by speaking up, by sharing and by addressing all the issues that I am passionate about, I am changing things.
I am so thankful to the people who use their success to raise awareness for important causes and who try to make a positive impact. I feel inspired by them. So, rather than being disappointed at those who don’t use their platform for good, I’m instead going to make sure that I do, no matter how small my platform may be. I encourage you to do the same.
Let’s communicate. Let’s shout at the top of our lungs. Let’s make banners, videos, take photos and write speeches. Let’s use our voices and let everybody know that our ambition and passion are the only real power that we need. I will do my all, always. No matter what judgments people may make of me, no matter the forces I have to stand against, I will never let myself be drowned out. I will never sit patiently and allow others to dictate my life. I will never wait around as if I don’t share in the responsibility. Let that fire within you burn bright and let your voice speak loud. “If not us, who? If not now, when?”
Conversation Confidence by Edward Ezeanu
