Be Heard

I can be pretty loud. I like to perform. I love to teach. It would seem that I like hearing my own voice. But in so many instances, I have found myself a quiet observer rather than one who speaks her mind. And while I do believe that actions speak louder than words, I also know the power that can come from speaking, the impact that statements can make on lives, and the solidifying power of putting something into writing.

I've always enjoyed being the "neutral" friend who attempts to be accepting of many ideas. But there are a lot of voices out there, and there are some that seem stronger than others. What scares me is how many voices are not being heard, who (like me) are afraid of offending or looking stupid. For too long I have quietly witnessed life. It's time to be heard.

I believe in people changing their own lives rather than getting bail outs or constant help from the government. I believe that the more people feel responsible for making something out of their life, the more power they find within themselves to do it. The more you take away responsibility and place it on a outside source, the less people care. The more standards fall. The more trapped we become in a "but I deserve this" mentality. The more we expect others to help people instead of making opportunities to help them ourselves. The less our country resembles the great nation is has potential to be.

I believe in faith, mercy, and eternal laws. I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. And while I strive to love all, including those whose opinions are complete opposites of my own, I am terrified by the crumbling morality that is around us. Even some of my greatest friends have made me feel inferior or less "open-minded" because I am committed to certain core beliefs that bring me indescribable joy and hope. I realize that people are allowed to make their own choices--a reality that I am grateful for every day of my life--but I am tired of being told I am intolerant just because I refuse to let go of my faith. The cry for tolerance is one that asks you to be tolerant of my beliefs as well. I refuse to give up my values, but that doesn't mean I don't love those who don't share them.

I believe in families. I am grateful for a family that sat down every night for dinner. I am thankful for meaningful relationships that endure through time. I believe those relationships are critical to society. The family unit is being attacked in every direction, in every corner of the earth, and the repercussions are huge. This is true both in and outside the church.

I believe in women. As a feminist, I am proud to know what women have to offer. And while I believe completely in the sanctity and privilege of motherhood, I know that every woman has other ways to contribute to the world beyond her children. I will never be solely defined by my children, my husband, or my career. I am disgusted when I see women portrayed as nothing more than sexual objects, shopaholics, or brainless accessories. I am also equally offended when I see women who feel they have to be base, aggressive, mean-spirited, or manipulative in order to succeed.

I believe in people. While I am strong in my own beliefs, my own values, and my own faith; I know that for the most part, people want to do what they believe is right. They want to mean something to the world. They want to create, inspire, and give back. And it's my hope that we can each establish, evaluate, and hold on to core beliefs and still be able to view the world through each others' eyes. It reminds us that we are all just trying to do our best and make meaning out of life. Empathy is charity. Integrity is power. It's time to stand for something.